Information for the public

Knowing the signs of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Knowing the signs of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is not very common and can be confused with other lung problems. Because of this, NICE has said that it is important for healthcare professionals to know the signs of the condition when they are assessing you. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is more common in people over 45. Not everyone has symptoms but if you notice the following it might suggest you have the disease:

  • feeling unusually breathless after normal everyday activities, such as walking up the stairs

  • a cough that does not go away or prolonged bouts of coughing

  • changes in the finger tips and nails.

Your doctor may also notice the following:

  • a crackling sound when they listen to your chest

  • test results showing that the lungs are not working as well as they could be.

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