ABOUT IPF

> Therapies

At this point there is no cure for IPF; however, there are treatments available that may improve symptoms. Talk to your doctor, who will help you decide which are appropriate for you. If you are prescribed a therapy, it is important to take your medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes—don’t skip a dose because you feel better or take more than instructed. Your doctor will want to see you on a regular basis to follow how you are doing. In addition, there are non-drug therapies that can help you manage symptoms.

The good news is that there are many new therapies under investigation. You may wish to ask your doctor for information on investigational clinical trials in your area.

LUNG TRANSPLANTATION

Another alternative for treating IPF is lung transplantation; however, there are many factors that need to be considered before it is recommended. Your doctor can discuss these with you.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP MANAGE MY SYMPTOMS?

In addition to the medicines your doctor prescribes, there are also non-drug approaches available that can help manage your IPF symptoms. Pulmonary rehabilitation, often combined with oxygen therapy, may help improve your ability to function without severe breathlessness. Home oxygen therapy and special ambulatory oxygen packs can help reduce breathlessness, allowing you to be more physically active.

• Pulmonary rehabilitation programs consist of exercise training, breathing techniques, medical education, nutrition advice, and emotional support provided by a team of nurses, respiratory and physical therapists, social workers, and dieticians. Speak to your physician about enrolling in a pulmonary rehabilitation program.
• Oxygen therapy allows you to continue being as active as possible. If your doctor prescribes oxygen therapy, you will learn how to use and adjust your oxygen level while in pulmonary rehabilitation. For more information on home and ambulatory oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation, visit the following Web sites:

Related Links: More About IPF, Causes of IPF, Signs & Symptoms, Diagnosis,

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