Feeling breathless after just a short walk?
You might think it's just aging, but this could be an early sign of pulmonary fibrosis – a serious and irreversible lung disease that is typically incurable.
In Taiwan, the only definitive cure is a lung transplant.
What's more concerning is that treatment options for pulmonary fibrosis are limited, and survival rates are low, posing an even greater threat than some cancers.

Studies show that the average survival period for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is only 2 to 3 years, and its 5-year survival rate is lower than that of breast and colon cancers.
Don't ignore even mild shortness of breath – your body might be signaling that it’s time to pay attention to your lung health.

1. What is Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive lung disease characterized by the thickening and scarring (fibrosis) of lung tissue, causing the lungs to gradually lose elasticity and impairing normal gas exchange. As fibrosis worsens, lung function deteriorates, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, dry cough, and reduced exercise tolerance.

When the lungs are damaged, the repair process may produce excessive abnormal fibers, turning soft, elastic lung tissue into rough, stiff tissue – much like a scouring pad. This is why pulmonary fibrosis is often referred to as “honeycomb lung.”

2. Causes of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis can result from various factors, including prolonged exposure to harmful substances (such as dust, smoke, or toxic gases), immune system disorders, side effects of certain medications, or underlying diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis). Sometimes, no clear cause can be identified – this is known as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

3. Symptoms of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Shortness of breath – noticeable even at rest.
Persistent dry cough – usually non-productive (without phlegm).
Fatigue and weakness.
Clubbing of fingers and toes – long-term pulmonary fibrosis may cause deformities around the nails, known as “clubbing,” resulting from poor circulation and low oxygen levels.

4. Treatment for Pulmonary Fibrosis

While there is no cure for pulmonary fibrosis, various treatments can help slow disease progression:

Medication – Anti-fibrotic drugs (such as pirfenidone and nintedanib) can reduce fibrosis progression and slow the disease's advancement.
Oxygen therapy – Since the lungs may struggle to absorb enough oxygen, oxygen therapy can improve blood oxygen levels and relieve shortness of breath.
Lung transplant – For severe cases, lung transplantation may be the only option when other treatments fail.

5. Daily Prevention and Care

Avoid harmful substances – Minimize exposure to smoke, dust, and chemicals.
Regular exercise – Moderate exercise helps maintain stamina and improves lung function.
Weight control – Excess weight increases lung strain.
Healthy diet – A balanced diet supports immune function.
Oxygen supplementation – Using oxygen as needed helps maintain lung oxygen levels.

For pulmonary fibrosis patients, oxygen therapy plays a vital role, especially in the advanced stages when the lungs can no longer absorb enough oxygen. As fibrosis progresses, patients may experience shortness of breath and oxygen deficiency. Oxygen therapy effectively boosts blood oxygen levels, alleviates discomfort, and reduces symptoms such as fatigue and palpitations caused by low oxygen.

Although pulmonary fibrosis cannot be cured, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can effectively manage the condition.
The journey may be challenging, but whether you or your loved one is facing this condition, remember that MJMT  is always by your side. We’ll support you through every challenge, ensuring each breath you take is filled with warmth and care. Let’s safeguard your health together.