Lung fibrosis occurs when lung tissue becomes damaged and scarred. This thickened and stiff tissue makes it difficult for the lungs to function properly. As lung fibrosis worsens, one becomes progressively shorter of breath. Many Covid patients have been diagnosed with lung fibrosis and are the most common ailment faced by these patients. This condition can hamper one’s daily activities and requires immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis, swift treatment and adequate hydration is key when it comes to treating it at an early stage.
The scarring linked with lung fibrosis can occur owing to many factors. The bad news is that the lung damage cannot be repaired. However, medications and therapies can help tackle symptoms and improve quality of life.
Symptoms
If you are suffering from lung fibrosis, you may showcase symptoms such as shortness of breath (dyspnea), dry cough, tiredness, unexplained weight loss, aching muscles, and joints widening and rounding of the tips of the fingers or toes (clubbing). You should be aware that the course of lung fibrosis and the severity of symptoms may vary considerably from person to person.
Some people become ill very quickly with the severe disease while others show moderate symptoms which may worsen more slowly, over months or even years. However, some patients experience a rapid worsening of their symptoms (acute exacerbation), like severe shortness of breath, which tends to last for several days to weeks.
People who have acute exacerbations are placed on a mechanical ventilator. Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics, corticosteroid medications, or other medications to treat an acute exacerbation. One must immediately consult the doctor during the onset of the symptoms. Delay in doing so can worsen the condition. It is the most common ailment faced by Covid-19 patients’ post-recovery. So, stay in touch with your doctor in case you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above.
Causes
One maybe at the risk of suffering from lung fibrosis if the tissue around and between the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs tend to get scarred and thickened too. And this will make it difficult for oxygen to pass into your bloodstream. Certain medical conditions, radiation therapy, and some medications are some of the factors which can lead to lung damage. Also, long-term exposure to a number of toxins and pollutants like silica dust, grain dust, hard metal dust, and bird and animal droppings can damage your lungs. After determining the underlying cause, your doctor will suggest an appropriate treatment.
Post-Covid fibrosis can stiffen one’s lung tissues and makes it harder for the patient to breath properly. The patient may also require oxygen support in some cases. Severe lung fibrosis is seen in patients who already have respiratory ailments. The patients are usually administered medication to help them get back on track and carry on with their daily activities.
Risk factors
It is common disorder among middle-aged and older adults however, it is rarely seen in children. Smokers and former smokers develop lung fibrosis when compared to people who have not indulged in the practice. It also occurs in emphysema patients. If one tends to work in mining, farming, or construction sites, or if one is exposed to pollutants, then there is an increased risk of damage. Some types of lung fibrosis run in families. So, know your family history and try and take all the precautions that you can.
If you have any respiratory ailment and tend to suffer from Covid-19 then you will have to be extra cautious as you may also be at the risk of suffering from lung fibrosis. Watch out for any signs of breathlessness and other symptoms.
Preventive measures
Pulmonary rehabilitation can help you manage your symptoms and enhance your quality of life. It includes doing physical exercise to improve your endurance, breathing techniques to improve lung efficiency, nutritional counselling and support. If you are a Covid patient suffering from lung fibrosis then you need to visit a doctor regularly. Make sure to take zinc and vitamin supplements as per doctor’s prescription for the smooth functioning of your respiratory system.
Bid adieu to smoking if you have a lung disease. You must speak to your doctor and opt for smoking cessation programmes which may help you quit. Furthermore, you must also keep in mind that second-hand smoking is harmful, so avoid being around people who smoke. One with lung disease may shed weight because it is uncomfortable to eat and because of the extra energy it takes to breathe. Hence, a nutritionally rich diet that contains adequate calories is vital.
You should try to eat smaller meals more often during the day. Include fresh fruits, whole grains and dairy products, in your daily diet. Include food such as apples, foods jam-packed with omega-3 fatty acids such as walnuts and broccoli. Beans can help fight free radicals that tend to damage your lungs. Berries contain antioxidants and fruits and vegetables like papaya, pineapple, kiwi, cabbage, carrots, turmeric, and ginger can help strengthen the immune system. Honey is an excellent option for cough. Say no to trans-fat and saturated fat, foods with too much salt and added sugars.
Regular physical activity can help you enhance the functioning of your lungs, and tame stress. Indulge in activities like walking and cycling. Do breathing exercises regularly. This can help clear mucus from the lungs. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation that will calm you down.
Make sure to relax and get enough rest as it helps one get more energy and cope with the stress of the condition.
Taking steam can help break up mucus so you can expel it more easily. So, take it on a regular basis and also try to gargle with salt and water. Gargling also helps clear the mucus.
Make sure you go for regular follow-up check-ups with your doctor. Take medications as prescribed by your doctor and adhere to all the instructions. Doing so can surely help you improve the quality of your life.
Kate is a chest physician at Zen Multispeciality Hospital, Chembur
