Treatments for Pulmonary Fibrosis

Everyone is different. Together with your medical team you will find what treatment suits you. The focus of treatment is finding ways to reduce symptoms and to support your mental well-being with the goal of improving quality of life for you, your family and carers.

Treatment depends on the types and causes of pulmonary fibrosis. There are drug treatments for IPF and treatments for other types of PF. New treatments are being developed through clinical trials all the time.

There are 23 specialist Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) centres in the UK, with doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals dedicated to the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.

There are a number of treatments to help with symptom control. These include:

  1. Breathlessness management and pulmonary rehabilitation
  2. Oxygen therapy – if blood oxygen levels fall with exercise or when resting
  3. Cough suppressants and mucolytics to aid sputum clearance
  4. Management of anxiety and panic attacks

Your doctor may suggest assessment by palliative and supportive care specialists for helping with symptom control and psychological support. If you smoke, there's help available to stop smoking.

For some people, referral for lung transplantation may be discussed. You may also be able to take part in research. There are a number of different studies taking place across the UK. You can find out more information using our Study Finder. Ask your healthcare team about what options are available for you.