Pulmonary Fibrosis

A condition where lung tissue becomes thickened and scarred, making it harder to breathe over time.

LungsChronic conditionLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Breathlessness that slowly worsens, a dry cough, tiredness and clubbing (rounding) of the fingertips.

Common Treatments

Antifibrotic medicines to slow scarring, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and sometimes lung transplant.

Risk Factors

Older age, smoking, exposure to dust or chemicals, some autoimmune conditions and certain medicines.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Pulmonary fibrosis is a type of interstitial lung disease. Scarring stiffens the lungs and makes it harder for oxygen to pass into the blood.

When no cause is found it's called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Early diagnosis helps start treatment that can slow it down.

Symptoms

Breathlessness

Gradually worse, first with activity.

Dry cough

That doesn't go away.

Tiredness

And weight loss.

Finger clubbing

Rounded, wider fingertips.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Repeated injury to lung tissue leading to scarring; the cause is often unknown.

Key Risk Factors

  • Age and smoking More common in older adults and smokers.
  • Exposures Silica, asbestos, metal dust, bird droppings and mould.
  • Other conditions Rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and some medicines.

Management & Treatment

01. Antifibrotic medicines

Can slow the scarring in some types.

02. Oxygen and rehabilitation

Help breathing and activity.

03. Lung transplant

For some people with advanced disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is it diagnosed?
With a CT scan, breathing tests and sometimes a biopsy.
Is it contagious?
No.
Can it be reversed?
Scarring can't be reversed, but treatment can slow it.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.