CONDITION 05
Lung scarring (ILD)
Interstitial lung disease: conditions that affect the lung tissue itself.
Emergency warning.
If you have severe breathlessness, chest pain that does not ease, blue lips, confusion or are coughing up a lot of blood, call
108
or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Overview
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a group of conditions that cause inflammation or scarring of the lung tissue, called pulmonary fibrosis when scarring is present. This can make the lungs stiff and reduce how well oxygen passes into the blood.
Symptoms
- A dry cough that does not go away
- Breathlessness, often slowly worsening
- Tiredness
- Unexplained reduced ability to exercise
Assessment
- A detailed history, including work, medicines and exposures
- Breathing tests
- A high-resolution CT scan of the chest
- Additional tests chosen according to the findings
Treatment Options
- Treatment depends on the specific type of ILD
- Avoiding known causes or triggers where they are found
- Medicines and supportive care as advised by your specialist
- Rehabilitation and oxygen support where needed
When to Seek Care
- A persistent dry cough with growing breathlessness
- Reduced exercise ability that you cannot explain
- A known lung condition that seems to be worsening
This page is for general education and does not replace advice from your own doctor. See the disclaimer .
Concerned about lung scarring (ild)?
Request a visit and bring your questions. This form is not for emergencies.