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Pulmonary fibrosis
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<p>Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition in which the <a href="/facts/Lungs/gTWXI6Fj">lungs</a> become <a href="/facts/Scar/XSQ92JoG">scarred</a> over time. Symptoms include <a href="/facts/Shortness_of_breath/1jBfFzxU">shortness of breath</a>, a dry cough, feeling tired, weight loss, and <a href="/facts/Nail_clubbing/fwjPzPzz">nail clubbing</a>. Complications may include <a href="/facts/Pulmonary_hypertension/4848aBJl">pulmonary hypertension</a>, <a href="/facts/Respiratory_failure/R3GcdkJ1">respiratory failure</a>, <a href="/facts/Pneumothorax/oaCPSynh">pneumothorax</a>, and <a href="/facts/Lung_cancer/LHLdR454">lung cancer</a>. </p><p>Causes include environmental pollution, certain medications, <a href="/facts/Connective_tissue_disease/ST6bwhxb">connective tissue diseases</a>, infections, and <a href="/facts/Interstitial_lung_disease/0LQEwsGc">interstitial lung diseases</a>. But in most cases the cause is <a href="/facts/Idiopathic_disease/YIVAonwA">unknown</a> (<a href="/facts/Idiopathic_pulmonary_fibrosis/NhAoCEqb">idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis</a>). Diagnosis may be based on symptoms, <a href="/facts/Medical_imaging/pL6JyJEp">medical imaging</a>, <a href="/facts/Lung_biopsy/KSXKhXRx">lung biopsy</a>, and <a href="/facts/Lung_function_tests/GgLVssa6">lung function tests</a>. </p><p>No cure exists and treatment options are limited. Treatment is directed toward improving symptoms and may include <a href="/facts/Oxygen_therapy/38BdReab">oxygen therapy</a> and <a href="/facts/Pulmonary_rehabilitation/X4URsLUH">pulmonary rehabilitation</a>. Certain medications may slow the scarring. <a href="/facts/Lung_transplantation/Yc2BIroT">Lung transplantation</a> may be an option. At least 5 million people are affected globally. Life expectancy is generally less than five years. </p>