Pulmonary Fibrosis Treatment

Pulmonary fibrosis is most common among middle-aged and elderly individuals, especially smokers and those with long-term exposure to dust or chemicals. This disease is a chronic progressive interstitial lung disorder characterized by alveolar wall fibrosis and reduced lung elasticity. Without timely treatment, lung ventilation function continues to decline, eventually leading to respiratory failure or even death. Treatment options must be individualized, emphasizing early intervention and long-term management.

Emerging Treatment Methods

Stem Cell Therapy.

Stem cell therapy is currently regarded as an important breakthrough direction in treating pulmonary fibrosis. By repairing damaged alveoli, regulating the immune system, and slowing the fibrosis process, stem cells can significantly improve respiratory function and form a core component of future treatment strategies.

① Promote lung tissue repair and regeneration

② Reduce pulmonary inflammatory response

③ Regulate immune mechanisms to stabilize the condition

④ Inhibit fibrosis progression and delay lung function deterioration

⑤ Improve quality of life and exercise tolerance

Conventional Treatment Methods

1. Antifibrotic Drug Therapy.

Commonly used clinical drugs include pirfenidone and nintedanib, which can inhibit fibroblast activity, slow the hardening of lung structures, and have a positive impact on disease progression.

2. Corticosteroids and Immunosuppressants.

Suitable for some patients with active inflammation, these drugs can relieve symptoms in the short term. Commonly used medications include prednisone and azathioprine, but they must be used reasonably under professional supervision to prevent side effects.

3. Long-term Oxygen Therapy Support.

Patients with moderate to severe lung impairment often suffer from hypoxemia. Oxygen therapy can effectively relieve dyspnea, tachycardia, and reduce right heart burden, thereby improving quality of life.

4. Pulmonary Rehabilitation Training.

Including respiratory muscle training, aerobic exercise, and energy-saving techniques, rehabilitation can enhance lung capacity and increase exercise tolerance. Long-term participation helps patients better cope with functional limitations caused by the disease.

5. Nutrition and Supportive Therapy.

Patients with pulmonary fibrosis often eat less due to dyspnea, leading to malnutrition. A balanced diet and supplementation of trace elements are crucial for immune function and disease stability, and should be incorporated into comprehensive treatment.

6. Antacids and Gastroesophageal Reflux Management.

Studies show that gastroesophageal reflux may promote micro-aspiration into the lungs and worsen fibrosis. Antacids such as PPIs can reduce this risk and slow disease progression.

7. Infection Prevention and Management.

Patients with pulmonary fibrosis have weakened immunity and are prone to lung infections. Regular influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations, as well as early intervention for infections, help maintain stability of the disease.

8. Lung Transplantation.

For patients with end-stage pulmonary fibrosis who do not respond to conventional treatments, lung transplantation is the final treatment option. Although indications are limited, it can greatly improve survival time and quality of life, making it a critical intervention.

Conclusion

Pulmonary fibrosis treatment emphasizes the concept of "multi-modal combined intervention." Experts at the United Life International Medical Center note that stem cell therapy offers a breakthrough direction for both present and future treatment. In combination with drugs, oxygen therapy, and rehabilitation, it can effectively slow disease progression and enhance patients' survival quality and life expectancy.