Understanding Interstitial Lung Disease

Rather than being a single disorder of the lungs, interstitial lung disease is actually the collective term applied to a number of problems that can cause the progressive scarring of the lungs. While the development of this type of disease is usually over time, there are instances where the condition will develop suddenly. Since a case of interstitial lung disease will seriously affect the proper function of the lungs, prompt treatment is necessary to prevent any more damage from taking place.

The disease develops when the tiny air sacs of the lungs become inflamed. This causes the tissue that supports and protects the sacs to thicken. As this process continues, the thickened tissue also begins to scar over. The end result is that the highly elastic air sacs, which normally expand and contract with every breath taken, can no longer expand to full capacity. When this occurs, the individual will find it increasingly difficult to take in enough oxygen to properly supply the bloodstream.

A number of situations can trigger the development of interstitial lung disease. Exposure to certain elements such as silica dust or asbestos fibers can increase the chances of infecting the air sacs and leading to the scarring of lung tissue. Constant exposure to chlorine and ammonia may also have the same effect. Many professions that involve working closely with substances of this type will require wearing protective clothing and breathing gear in order to minimize the risk of developing some form of this condition.

Allergies can also lead to interstitial lung disease. For some people, exposure to different grains or even sugar cane can trigger the illness. Mold may also serve as the trigger for the development of this condition, as well as constant exposure to animal or bird droppings.

Medication and other medical treatments may also cause interstitial lung disease to develop. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication can cause this problem, as well as some drugs used for treating various types of cardiovascular conditions. Radiation therapy may also cause the scarring, especially if the treatments are taken for an extended period of time.

There is no cure for interstitial lung disease. Once the scarring of the lung tissue take place, it is impossible to reverse the damage. However, it is possible to use medication to prevent the development of more scarring and thus retain at least partial lung efficiency. In severe cases, a lung transplant may be required. Currently, research continues with the hopes of one day finding a means of reversing as well as containing the damage.