Pulmonary fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is the end result of many different conditions that cause scar tissue to build up in your lungs and make breathing increasingly difficult.

On this page we explain the different possible causes for pulmonary fibrosis (the scarring of the lungs).

The different types of pulmonary fibrosis have similar symptoms. You’ll have tests and speak to a specialist consultant to find out exactly which type you have.

Pulmonary fibrosis is diagnosed through a number of different tests and is a joint effort from specialist teams. On this page we explain the tests you might have if it’s thought you might have pulmonary fibrosis.

Your treatment will depend on the cause of the fibrosis. Once lung scarring occurs in the lungs it cannot be reversed, so there is no cure for existing fibrosis, whatever the cause.

It can be difficult to know what to ask your GP, nurse or specialist when you have PF.

If you’ve been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, including IPF, our organiser can help you take care of yourself and feel more in control.

Get in touch with our friendly helpline team for more information about pulmonary fibrosis and practical support.

Find support in your area, including support groups, exercise and singing for lung health.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lung condition that scars your lungs and reduces the efficiency of your breathing.

Sarcoidosis, also called sarcoid, is a condition where inflamed cells join together to make tiny lumps called granulomas. This can happen in any part of your body.

For reasons that we don’t understand fully, sometimes the immune system turns against the body.

This page is about interstitial lung disease (ILD) caused by medication (drugs) or treatment.