Pulmonary Fibrosis Month is recognized in September to bring awareness to the chronic lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. Pulmonary fibrosis involves scarring of the lungs, which causes the tissues in the lungs to get thick stiffen, making it hard to absorb oxygen into the bloodstream.

What Causes Pulmonary Fibrosis?

According to the American Lung Association, pulmonary fibrosis is an interstitial lung disease, which can be a group of conditions that cause inflammation and scarring around the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. It can also be caused by inhaling hazardous chemicals, certain disease states or medications, and genetics; however, most often the cause is unknown. Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis include:

• Shortness of breath, often with physical activity
• Dry, hacking cough
• Fast, shallow breathing
• Gradual unintended weight loss
• Tiredness
• Aching joints and muscles
• Clubbing of the fingers or toes

Pulmonary fibrosis often goes misdiagnosed because its symptoms can be similar to other lung disease symptoms. The American Lung Association shows that most people with pulmonary fibrosis develop symptoms between the ages of 50 and 70 years. There are several types of pulmonary fibrosis, so it is important to talk with your doctor and see a specialist to confirm your diagnosis.

Oxygen Therapy Treatment

There is no cure for pulmonary fibrosis. Oxygen therapy is one of the various forms of treatment prescribed to control symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients. Each patient’s oxygen needs are distinct and depend on their lifestyle and severity of their disease.

Carmichael’s provides a wide variety of home respiratory therapy equipment, supplies and services, primarily to patients with severe and chronic pulmonary diseases. Carmichael’s respiratory therapists coordinate the prescribed therapy with the patient’s physician and train the patient and caregiver in the correct usage of the equipment. Carmichael’s pharmacists work with the patient and the patient’s prescribing doctor to ensure the correct prescription is administered.

A doctor’s prescription is needed to buy any home respiratory therapy equipment. It is important to follow the device’s instructions to effectively use it. Prescription medicine to treat pulmonary fibrosis can be filled at Carmichael’s Retail Pharmacy. Please contact a Carmichael’s representative to discuss any respiratory therapy equipment products and supplies needs. The representative can also help you with any additional information needed and can verify your insurance or other available coverage.