Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is a group of lung conditions that cause scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs, making it harder to breathe and get enough oxygen into the blood. This scarring happens in the lung’s interstitium, the tissue that supports the air sacs. Over time, the lungs become stiff, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, a dry cough, and fatigue. ILD can be caused by long-term exposure to harmful substances (like dust, mold, or chemicals), autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis), infections, or sometimes for unknown reasons. The damage from ILD cannot be reversed, but treatments like medications, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation can help slow the progression and improve breathing. If you have ongoing breathing problems, it’s important to see a doctor for early diagnosis and management.
