An older man reading about symptoms from a book.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Your healthcare team can help manage symptoms such as breathlessness or a cough.

Key facts

  • Symptoms can worsen if the disease progresses; however, they can be partially managed through lifestyle changes and different treatments
  • Pulmonary fibrosis can cause a range of different symptoms, such as shortness of breath and a dry cough
  • Not everyone will experience the same symptoms

Lung diseases affect different people in different ways, and for this reason, treatments will vary. But there are lifestyle changes and different treatments that can help you manage symptoms and may even slow the progression of the disease.  

Possible symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fits of dry cough
  • Gradual, unintended weight loss
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Chest discomfort or pain

In some cases, symptoms caused by pulmonary fibrosis can accompany other symptoms that are specific to the underlying conditions that you may have. 

Changes in your symptoms (whether there is improvement or worsening) can indicate to your healthcare team if your disease is progressing. Talk to your healthcare team about your symptoms and tell them of any changes you notice. Be open about how you are feeling and ask as many questions as you need to. It is important to give as much information as possible. 

Download and print a list of common questions so you can be prepared and discuss all the things you want to with your healthcare team. 

Quick Tip

Keep a diary of your symptoms to track how you feel over time. Also, make a note of any questions and be sure to share your symptoms with your doctor.

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Diagnosis:

There are many different types of lung diseases in which scarring is a feature. Read about how it is detected and diagnosed.