Prevention of Interstitial Lung Disease

  • Graphic image showing scarring of a lung with the title Interstitial Lung Disease
    Interstitial Lung Disease
    Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an umbrella term used for a large group of diseases that cause scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs. It affects millions of people globally. It is a serious condition that impacts mortality and quality of life of people affected by it.  ILD is different from COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)  
Submitted by PatientsEngage on 27 September 2024
ILD prevention

These are some steps we can take to reduce the risk of Interstitial Lung Disease:

  1. Prevent occupational exposure: 
    It is advisable to utilize a respirator, which is a mask designed to filter particles from the air, when exposed to hazardous substances such as asbestos, metal dusts, or chemicals.
     
  2. Exposure to certain allergens:
    It is recommended to wear a respirator when working in proximity to substances that can trigger chronic allergic reactions, such as hay, grain, bird droppings (esp. pigeon), feathers, and heating and cooling systems.  Exposure to household mold is another silent trigger for ILD.
     
  3. Manage and seek treatment for any underlying lung diseases:
    If you have a connective tissue disease or sarcoidosis, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider to discuss strategies for effectively managing your condition and preventing ILD. 
     
  4. Quit smoking and avoid exposure to smoke.

References:

  • “Obstructive Lung Disease - an Overview | ScienceDirect Topics.” Www.sciencedirect.com, www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/obstructive-lung-di….
  • Lung Disease – Pulmonary Practice. pulmonarypracticeassociates.com/lung-disease/
  • Martinez-Pitre, Pedro J., et al. “Restrictive Lung Disease.” PubMed, Stat Pearls Publishing, 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560880/.
  • Fiorentino G, Esquinas AM. Restrictive lung disease: Low EPAP - Good ventilation. Is it real? Chron Respir Dis. 2017 Aug;14(3):321-322. [PMC free article] [PubMed]
  • Cleveland Clinic. “Interstitial Lung Disease: Symptoms, Causes, Tests and Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17809-interstitial-lung-disease.
  • “Interstitial Lung Diseases - What Are Interstitial Lung Diseases? | NHLBI, NIH.” Www.nhlbi.nih.gov, 24 Mar. 2022, www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/interstitial-lung-diseases.
  • “Understanding ILD.” Interstitial Lung Disease Program, med.stanford.edu/ild/patient-resources/understanding-ild.html?tab=proxy. 
  • “Bagassosis.” Ihatepsm.com, ihatepsm.com/blog/bagassosis. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.
  • “UpToDate.” Www.uptodate.com, www.uptodate.com/contents/interstitial-lung-disease-associated-with-sjo…. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.
  • “Symptoms.” Stanfordhealthcare.org, stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/chest-lungs-and-airways/interstitial-lung-disease/symptoms.html.
  • “ILD Comorbidities.” Foundation.chestnet.org, foundation.chestnet.org/lung-health-a-z/interstitial-lung-disease-ild/ild-comorbidities/. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.
  • “6 Minute Walk Test.” The Cardiology Advisor, 21 Nov. 2022, www.thecardiologyadvisor.com/ddi/6-minute-walk-test/.
Changed
21/Apr/2025
Community
Auto Immune conditions
Respiratory and Pulmonary
Condition
Interstitial Lung Disease

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