Interstitial Lung Disease

Overview

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an overarching term referring to disorders that cause scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs. The scar tissue that forms in the lungs makes it difficult for the air sacs to expand and contract which interrupts the breathing process. Patients most commonly experience shortness of breath, a dry cough, chest pain and discomfort, and extreme tiredness.​

There is no cure for lung damage caused by ILD, but treatments can help prevent further damage as well as make it easier for patient to breathe.

Resources

American Lung Association
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/interstitial-lung-disease

What Are Interstitial Lung Diseases?
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/interstitial-lung-diseases