How Is Pulmonary Fibrosis Treated?

There is no cure for pulmonary fibrosis. Current treatments are aimed at slowing the course of the disease, relieving symptoms and helping you stay active and healthy. Treatments for PF include:

Depending on the type of pulmonary fibrosis you have, there may be medications to slow progression of the disease and others that will help relieve your symptoms. Only your medical provider can determine if any medications may be beneficial for you.

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Oxygen therapy (sometimes called supplemental oxygen) may be prescribed if your lung disease is preventing a healthy level of oxygen from getting into your bloodstream. It may help reduce your shortness of breath and make it easier for you to stay active.

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Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program that teaches you about your lung disease, how to exercise and manage your disease and provides support and counseling.

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Lung transplant evaluation should be recommended by your physician early after diagnosis

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Clinical trials are being conducted to better understand how pulmonary fibrosis develops and to advance the treatments available. Clinical trials may give you access to new types of treatment being studied.

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Treatment is only one part of living well with PF. Nutrition, exercise, stress management and protecting your lungs all have an impact on your disease.

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Warning about over the counter (OTC) portable oxygen concentrators: You may have seen online advertisements for non-prescription, portable oxygen concentrators (POCs). While these are often more affordable, if you have a lung disease like COPD or pulmonary fibrosis, which requires you to use prescription oxygen, these OTC devices may not meet your oxygen needs and it would be important to speak with your health provider before purchasing.

Learn more about portable oxygen concentrators at Lung.org or contact the Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872 and press 2) or submit a question.

Page last updated: May 5, 2023

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