Treatment Lung Disease

Treatment Lung Disease

Lung injury that occurs in the interstitial lung disease can not be reversed and no current treatment has been proven to stop the progression of the disease last. Some treatments, however, can temporarily improve symptoms or slow the progression of the disease. Others help to improve the quality of life.

Drugs 
Many people diagnosed with interstitial lung disease are first treated with a corticosteroid (prednisone), sometimes in combination with other drugs that suppress the immune system - such as methotrexate or cyclosporine. None of these combinations has been very effective in the long run.

Oxygen 
Using oxygen can not stop lung damage, but it can:

     To breathe and exercise easier
     Prevent or lessen the complications of low oxygen levels in the blood
     Reduce blood pressure in the right side of your heart
     Improve your sleep and sense of well-being
You are more likely to receive oxygen when you sleep or exercise, although some people may use the round-the-clock.

Pulmonary rehabilitation 
The goal of pulmonary rehabilitation is not only to improve daily functioning, but also to help people with interstitial lung disease live fully satisfactory. To this end, pulmonary rehabilitation programs focus on:

     Physical exercise to improve endurance
     Breathing techniques that improve the efficiency of the lungs
     Emotional support
     Nutritional counseling

Surgery 
Lung transplantation may be an option of last resort for younger people suffering from severe interstitial lung disease who have not benefited from other treatment options.

Simple

• Treat the underlying cause, if identified
• Avoid lung irritants
• Use effective coughing techniques
• Use supplemental oxygen when needed
• Use steroids for chronic inflammation
• Use energy conservation techniques
• Use relaxation techniques
• Use bronchodilator therapy if small airways have obstructive defects
• Get a flu vaccine yearly