Overview

Interstitial lung disease is a long-term (chronic) lung disease. It happens because of damage between the air sacs in the lung. The damage scars the lung and causes breathing problems.

People with interstitial lung disease get breathless during exercise and may have a dry cough. These problems may get worse slowly or very quickly.

Interstitial lung disease can be caused by breathing in dust from asbestos and silica. It also can be caused by infections and some medicines. Sometimes doctors cannot find the cause.

You may get medicine to treat the problem. Corticosteroids can sometimes reduce the swelling of lung tissue and prevent more damage. Oxygen treatment may help your condition.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Do not smoke. Smoking makes interstitial lung disease worse. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems with your medicine.
• Get influenza (flu) and pneumococcal vaccines. Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines. These vaccines help prevent lung infection.
• Make an exercise plan with help from your doctor or other health professional. Exercise can help you breathe more easily.
• Think about joining a support group. This can help you cope with problems caused by interstitial lung disease.