How to treat pulmonary fibrosis with folk remedies? Pneumofibrosis of the lungs: causes and symptoms, treatment and prevention Radical pneumofibrosis of the lungs treatment with folk remedies

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs is a pathological proliferation of connective tissue under the influence of inflammation or a dystrophic process.
This condition leads to a threat of respiratory dysfunction and deterioration of the ventilation of the organ.

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The site provides background information. Adequate diagnosis and treatment of the disease is possible under the supervision of a conscientious physician. All drugs have contraindications. You need to consult a specialist, as well as a detailed study of the instructions! .

Pneumofibrosis - causes of development

The process of proliferation of connective tissue is long, the disease develops over a long period of time.
Cause diseases of the respiratory system:

• Infectious and invasive lesions of the lungs, especially tuberculosis, syphilis, mycotic infections of tissues;
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease;
• Allergic and fibrosing alveolitis.

The disease develops in people who are constantly exposed to risk factors:

• Work in hazardous industries (coal, gas, chemical industry, work in dusty conditions);
• Injuries of the sternum;
• Foreign body in the bronchi;
• Lack of therapy aimed at eliminating infectious lesions of the lungs;
• Violation of hemodynamics in the pulmonary circulation;
• Hereditary predisposition and genetic diseases of the respiratory system.

The formation of pneumofibrosis is helped by atelectasis - adhesion of lung tissues. They occur as a result of sluggish bronchopneumonia, when there is a violation of the excretory function in the bronchi.

Loss of elasticity, deformation and atrophy of the muscle layer occurs due to damage to the bronchial wall. As a result, stagnation of infectious contents occurs.

Mass accumulations of pathogenic microorganisms lead to the development of interstitial pneumonia, followed by sclerotization of the lung tissue and a decrease in the air content in the cavity of the affected organ.

Clinical picture of pneumofibrosis

Early diagnosis is difficult due to unclear and poorly expressed symptoms in the early stages of pulmonary fibrosis. Often the patient goes to the hospital with a pronounced and advanced form of the disease.
Hypertrophy of the right ventricle developing against the background of the disease is expressed:

• In loss of consciousness;
• puffiness;
• Fainting.

If the disease is accompanied by pneumonia, then the patient's condition is severe, the symptoms are similar to the flu.

• headaches;
• high temperature;
• weakness;
• Muscle ache;
• sore throat;
• dry cough;
• Shortness of breath.

In advanced cases, the patient's fingers acquire a specific shape - the phalanges thicken, the fingers resemble a club in shape.
Pneumofibrosis affects different parts of the lungs, so the clinical picture depends on the location of the lesion. Forms of the disease are distinguished - basal, radical pneumofibrosis.

Focal, local and diffuse forms differ in the area of ​​the lung tissues involved in the process.

Various forms of diseases

Basal pneumofibrosis is characterized by damage to the base of the lungs (basal sections). Diagnosis is made after x-ray. Medicines are prescribed to stop the inflammatory process. In other cases, supportive manipulations are recommended: herbal treatment and breathing exercises.

Radical form - the disease covers the fate of the root of the lung, the transferred bronchitis or pneumonia can serve as an impetus to its onset. Characteristic of primary tuberculosis, leading to lung deformation.

Focal pneumofibrosis - affects certain parts of the tissue, leads to a decrease in its volume and compaction. Respiratory and ventilation function is not disturbed. Under the microscope, this is a reduction in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe lung and compaction of its parenchyma.

Local form - in this form, the lung tissue loses its functions and is replaced by the connective tissue of the only part of the organ.
Diffuse pneumofibrosis is one of the severe forms of the disease, in which the tissue of the whole organ, and sometimes both lungs, is affected.

The volume of the affected surface is greatly reduced due to compaction and tissue deformation, ventilation is disturbed.

Linear form - appears as a result of complications after suffering tuberculosis, pneumonia.
Interstitial pneumofibrosis - with this form, the patient suffers from shortness of breath, the disease develops due to inflammation in the pulmonary blood vessels.

Severe form - the disease progresses as a result of chronic inflammatory lung diseases. Smoking is the cause of the development of the disease at a young age. Cigarette smoke causes stagnation of mucus in the bronchi.

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Different types of diagnostics

Radiography is the best way to detect the disease, even in asymptomatic cases. Obtained during the study, these show the severity of the lesion, its degree and nature.
To detail pathological changes is carried out:

• Computed tomography (CT)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),
• Bronchography.

X-ray signs of pneumofibrosis are diverse, concomitant diseases make their changes:

• pulmonary emphysema,
• bronchiectasis,
• Chronical bronchitis.

With these pathologies are observed:

• Strengthening the looping and reticulation of the lung pattern,
• Infiltration in the peribronchial tissue
• Deformation of the walls of the bronchi.

Sometimes the lower parts of the lungs look like a porous sponge.

Bronchoscopy reveals bronchiectasis, traces of chronic bronchitis. To establish the activity and etiology of inflammation, the cellular composition of the lavage of the affected organ is analyzed.

In the study of VC (vital capacity of the lungs) and the Tiffno index (bronchial patency), spirometry and peak flowmetry are used. A complete blood count does not show significant abnormalities in pneumofibrosis.

Complex treatment of pathology

How to treat pneumofibrosis? It is impossible to completely get rid of the disease.
Its treatment is directed to:

• To stop the process
• Asphyxia prevention,
• Preservation of the normal state of healthy tissues.

Specific therapy is prescribed by a pulmonologist. In the acute course of the disease and the presence of inflammatory processes, inpatient treatment is necessary.

The main direction of medical actions is to eliminate the cause of the appearance of pathology.

For inflammation are prescribed:

• Expectorants;
• Mucolytics;
• Antibiotics.

Episodes of heart failure require the use of:

• potassium preparations;
• cardiac glycosides.

Glucocorticoids are needed to eliminate allergic reactions.
With suppuration and destruction of the lung tissue, surgical intervention is required to resect the affected area.
Physical methods of conservative treatment:

• chest massage;
• Physiotherapy;
• Walks in the open air.

The latest innovation in the field of pulmonology is the use of stem cells in fibrotic lung diseases. This method improves gas exchange and the structure of the respiratory system.

In advanced stages, lung transplantation is indicated to save the patient's life.

• calcium;
• Copper;
• Potassium salts;
• Vitamins A and B9.

Prognosis and prevention in case of a disease

It depends on the area of ​​the surface involved in the process and the rate of replacement of lung tissue with connective tissue. In the presence of secondary infections and tuberculous processes, the probability of death increases sharply.
Preventive measures include:

• Treatment of all colds on time, using the correct technique;
• Compliance with precautionary measures in hazardous industries;
• hardening;
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: quitting smoking;
• Physical exercises.

Pneumofibrosis is independent of gender, but is common in men over 50 years of age.

The progression of the disease leads to disability and death, so timely diagnosis and qualified treatment are so important.

Physiotherapy of pneumofibrosis

During the treatment of pneumofibrosis, the most important task is to eliminate all its causes. If pneumonia is detected, then it is urgent to start antibiotic therapy. Often, various medications are prescribed along with physical therapy exercises. Pneumofibrosis or pneumonia should be treated until complete clinical and radiographic recovery. And after a full recovery, people must stay registered with a specialist for a whole year.

But in addition to drug treatment, patients with this disease are prescribed physiotherapy. Iontophoresis and ultrasound with medicinal ingredients can be used as physiotherapy. This treatment gives excellent results.

And sometimes, oxygen therapy is prescribed, in which oxygen enters the lungs through the apparatus. Oxygen enters as much as it is contained in the surrounding space.

Breathing exercises

Excellent assistants for pneumofibrosis are breathing exercises that help improve the functioning of the respiratory system, strengthen the whole body due to the supply of oxygen, collapsed areas of the lungs.

There are many good methodical exercises to strengthen the respiratory system, for example, the Buteyko and Strelnikova methods. But you do not need to stick to only such methods, you can do easier breathing exercises, for example, inflating balloons. And for greater effect from such exercises, it is better to carry them out in the fresh air or in a well-ventilated area.

Here are some great exercises:

• Take a deep breath, hold your breath for a while and exhale slowly;
• While inhaling, slowly raise your hands up, exhale sharply and slowly lower your hands with the sound "ha";
• Inflate balloons several times a day for about 1-2 minutes;
• A good exercise is to blow through a tube dipped into the water for about 2-3 minutes;
• Standing, feet shoulder-width apart, slowly lean forward, at the same time spread your arms to the sides, while leaning inhale with your stomach drawn in;
• The next exercise should be performed lying on your back (you can on the floor), exhale through your mouth, slightly pressing your hands on the diaphragm.

In combination with the described breathing exercises, you can do other exercises that help better ventilation of the lungs, for example, if pneumofibrosis is associated with bronchitis or pneumonia.

But remember one rule - you can’t do too difficult gymnastics with an acute form of the disease, first wait for the body to recover a little, and then, in case of improvement, start doing gymnastics.

Treatment with folk remedies

With pneumofibrosis of the lungs, excellent folk recipes can come to the rescue, reliable over time, which have been used for a long time by our grandmothers and great-grandmothers. Folk remedies are in no way inferior to medicines, but are considered more useful in composition.

Let's talk about some medicines:

1. Grind oman roots and rose hips in separate cups. We take 1 tbsp. Spoon these plants, pour into a metal container. Pour 600 ml of water. We put on a small fire, after boiling, boil for another 15 minutes. We filter the finished broth and pour it into a thermos, put it in a dark place to infuse for several hours. Then we drink the decoction, like tea, 150 ml 2-3 times a day, for 2 months (just do not skip the application!). With low acidity, you need to drink such a medicine 15 minutes before a meal, and in case of increased acidity - half an hour after a meal. You can add a little honey to the broth and drink chilled. The decoction increases energy levels, so it is good to drink it before exercise. At the same time, oman and rosehip regenerate lung tissue well, cleanse the lungs of sputum, and prevent the occurrence of inflammatory processes and infections in the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.
2. The following recipe will require 2 tbsp. spoons of anise seeds. Pour them into a metal bowl, pour 250 ml of water, put on a slow fire. From the moment of boiling, remove from the stove. The cooled broth is taken 0.5 cup 2 times a day. Anise seeds can also be added to milk along with cayenne pepper, and to sweeten the taste, you can add a little honey. Drink in small sips at night. Or you can make a liqueur with anise seeds: take 50 grams of seeds, pour them with 500 ml of strong white wine or low-quality cognac. Mix everything well and put in a dark place to infuse for 2 weeks. Then we drink 100 grams after meals.
3. Rosemary and essential oils based on it have an excellent therapeutic effect against pulmonary fibrosis. This plant and its oils cleanse the lungs of toxins and excess phlegm well. Rosemary-based medicine is a strong antioxidant that prevents lung cancer from developing, because a malignant tumor can form in the last stage of pneumofibrosis. Rosemary promotes good air circulation in the lungs and relaxes all bronchial passages, which improves the condition of the respiratory system. To prepare such a wonderful medicine, you need to cut rosemary into small pieces, pour it with water and honey 1: 1. Put it all in the oven and simmer for about 120 minutes. Cool and refrigerate. Use this composition for 1 tbsp. spoon morning and evening. You can make a liquor from rosemary, which has an amazing effect in the treatment of pneumofibrosis: we take 50 grams of a finely chopped plant, pour 500 ml of red wine into it, pour 3-4 tbsp. tablespoons of sugar, put on a slow fire, immediately remove from heat after boiling. Put the composition in a dark place for 48 hours. Store the strained drink in the refrigerator. Use 1 tbsp. Spoon, 60 minutes after eating.

After one course of treatment with some folk remedy, your breathing will improve, and you can do different breathing exercises.

Before using any folk remedy, it is advisable to consult with your doctor to avoid irreparable complications.

Consequences and complications

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs leaves behind irreversible changes in the tissues of the lungs.

The advanced stage of this disease is not completely cured, you can stop the further development of the process by adhering to preventive measures, which include:

• To give up smoking;
• When working with toxic substances, a respirator should be worn.

According to the characteristic features, pneumofibrosis is divided into progressive and non-progressive. The most dangerous is the progressive stage of pneumofibrosis, there will be dangerous complications - abscesses.

All exacerbations can give a person discomfort all his life. And the non-progressive stage is less dangerous, it develops almost without clinical indicators. And if the patient leads a healthy lifestyle, the disease will not give painful shocks and complications.

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Abnormal growth of lung tissues as a result of an inflammatory process or adverse conditions causes pulmonary fibrosis. This disease is divided into:

• local (focal), affecting a specific area of ​​the lung;
• diffuse pneumofibrosis, in which one or both lungs are completely affected.

Principles of treatment of pneumofibrosis

It should be noted that this disease cannot be completely cured, since in any case, active cells remain, which, if “favorable” conditions are created, can again provoke fibrosis. Therefore, it is important to have regular check-ups and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Treatment of pneumofibrosis begins with the elimination of the cause that caused it. If the cause is external factors (smoking, harmful working conditions, etc.), then you have to get rid of bad habits and change your place of work. In cases where tissue proliferation occurs as a result of an inflammatory process or against its background, then the treatment of cause and effect is carried out in parallel.

Treatment of pulmonary fibrosis includes an increase in physical activity. Sports activities, outdoor walks are recommended. For the treatment of pneumofibrosis with folk remedies, it is especially important to use breathing exercises. With its regular performance, gas exchange in the lungs, their ventilation and oxygen saturation improves.

Treatment of pulmonary fibrosis with folk remedies will enhance the effectiveness of traditional methods and will have a supportive effect on the body in the future.

Recipes for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis with folk remedies

Healing decoction:

1. Take two hundred grams and elecampane, one hundred grams of hawthorn, wild rose and blue cyanosis roots, fifty grams of ephedra two-spike.
2. Grind all ingredients and mix.
3. To prepare a decoction, pour one or two tablespoons of this mixture with a glass of water and boil over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
4. Then let it brew for an hour.

A decoction of a quarter cup is taken during the day.

You can also prepare a mixture of birch leaves and thyme (one hundred grams each), oregano (two hundred grams) and ephedra (50 grams). The preparation and use of this collection is the same as in the first recipe.

Creeping infusion proved its effectiveness in the treatment of pneumofibrosis. For this:

1. A tablespoon of grass is poured with half a liter of boiling water and left overnight in a thermos.
2. The infusion is filtered and drunk throughout the day.

What is pulmonary fibrosis? Fibrosis is scarring; pulmonary fibrosis - irreversible formation and replacement of the lung parenchyma with fibrous tissue. Fibrosis of the lung always leads to impaired respiratory function, because the elasticity of the lung tissue drops markedly.

As a consequence, it makes it difficult for the exchange of oxygen in the alveoli. Namely, in the alveoli, gas exchange occurs: upon contact with blood, oxygen from the air passes into it, and carbon dioxide exits. Recovery from pulmonary fibrosis does not occur because there is no regeneration of fibrosis into the lung tissue.

With fibrosis in the lungs, the connective tissue is compacted in the partitions between the alveoli and their walls; alveoli become inelastic, inextensible and impermeable to air and fall out of gas exchange. The lungs themselves increase in size due to the growth of this dense tissue. The process is progressive and fatal if left untreated.

Etiology of the phenomenon

The growth of connective tissue in the lungs can be caused by various factors:

• contact with organic and inorganic particles of fine structure (anthracite dust, mineral wool, mold, flour, asbestos, silicon);
• chronic pulmonary inflammation (sarcoidosis, TB, pneumonia);
• vasculitis;
• cirrhosis, allergies;
• radiation therapy (ionizing gases), after which post-radiation pulmonary fibrosis is diagnosed;
• immunodeficiency states and autoimmune processes (lupus, rheumatism);
• cystic fibrosis - a hereditary pathology in which cystic fibrosis develops;
• smoking;
• long-term use of certain drugs.

All of the above applies to cases of interstitial fibrosis. But in more than half of the cases of fibrosis, its etiology is unknown, so some generally consider fibrosis to be an idiopathic disease.

Idiopathic cases are not treatable at all. They occur more in men aged 50-60 years. Although the exact causes are unknown, the role of heredity and poor etiology has been proven.

Different types of pulmonary fibrosis in the medical literature may be called differently: diffuse alveolitis, fibrous, cryptogenic, fibrosing idiopathic, chronic pneumonia, etc.

The most common fibrosis in silicosis is the inhalation of quartz dust. It contains salicylic acid, which has the ability to cause the growth of connective tissue in the lung tissue.

This occupational pathology is found among workers of metallurgical plants. Construction professions involve inhalation of aluminum dust, talc, welding gases, cement.

Recent studies show that the appearance of fibrosis is promoted by: lack of sleep, which is why fatigue constantly accumulates and oxygen is constantly lacking. Patients with pulmonary fibrosis almost always have cardiovascular pathologies.

Types of fibrosis

There are quite a few causes of fibrosis, so it is divided into:

• drug fibrosis - taking drugs prescribed for oncology and arrhythmias;
• idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (primary);
• dust pulmonary pathologies - pneumoconiosis: silicosis, silicosis, kaolinosis, talcosis, metalloconiosis (siderosis, aluminosis, baritosis).
• fibrosis in autoimmune pathologies;
• infectious fibrosis (TB, bacterial pneumonia, etc.).

According to the distribution area, fibrosis is local or focal pulmonary fibrosis and diffuse (total); unilateral and bilateral fibrosis.

By localization in the lungs: apical fibrosis - in the upper parts of the lungs; damage to the root zone, fibrosis of the roots of the lungs. According to the intensity and degree of growth of fibrous tissue, there are:

• cirrhosis- diffuse and complete scar tissue instead of lung and damage to blood vessels and bronchi.
• pulmonary fibrosis- scar tissue is expressed by moderate growth, it is interspersed with lung tissue;
• pneumosclerosis- the connective tissue grows roughly and everywhere and takes the place of the lung tissue; seals appear in the lungs.

Separation by etiological factors: interstitial (it includes a large group of pathologies with the manifestation of specific negative causes) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Symptomatic manifestations

At first, there are often no manifestations, then the main symptom is shortness of breath, which occurs first during exertion, then at rest, cough - with scanty sputum, but more often dry, pale skin and acrocyanosis.

The progression of fibrosis leads to thickening of the phalanges of the fingers and changes in the nails - fingers - drumsticks and nails - watch glasses. A "cor pulmonale" is formed as HF increases. It is manifested by the growth of dyspnea, peripheral edema, swelling of the jugular veins, palpitations, pain behind the sternum. There is also constant weakness, fatigue, the patient is physically unable to perform normal loads.

About the presence of fibrotic changes says:

• wheezing, chest pain;
• cough with viscous sputum;
• shortness of breath at rest;
• tachycardia;
• edema and cyanosis;
• hyperhidrosis;
• bronchitis;
• breathing is rapid and shallow.

Fibrosis (apical) of the lungs: symptoms - the apical segment of the lungs changes; its symptoms resemble bronchitis and are easily detected radiographically. In the later stages, all symptoms are pronounced.

What is fibrosis (cystic fibrosis) of the lungs? This is cystic fibrosis - a systemic hereditary pathology in which there is a defect in the gene that regulates salt metabolism. Because of this, the work of the external secretion glands, which produce sweat and mucus, is disrupted everywhere. Mucus is needed in organs to protect them from desiccation and pathogens; moisturizing them.

The lungs, pancreas, intestines and sinuses are affected. In cystic fibrosis, the mucus thickens and clogs the excretory ducts.

In addition to the symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis, such cystic fibrosis is manifested by a prolonged cough, stunting, weight loss, barrel chest, bloating, infertility in men, colitis, pancreatitis, nasal polyps, sinusitis, etc.

Diagnostic methods

First, auscultation and percussion of the lungs;

• X-ray - fibrous areas look dark on the fluorogram.
• With fibrosis of the root part, the root is heavy due to an increase in local lymph nodes, so symptoms are taken into account here.
• After radiography, MRI and CT are prescribed;
• Conducting bronchoscopy - inserting a probe into the bronchi and examining them.

Spirography - reveals different aspects of the respiratory function and determines the vital capacity of the lungs (VC):

• the respiratory rate (RR) is determined - the number of respiratory cycles per minute;
• DO - tidal volume - the amount of air inhaled at a time;
• MOD - the same volume, but per minute;
• VC - after the maximum calm inhalation, the volume of exhaled air;
• forced VC (FVC) - the same, but after a full exhalation;
• maximum ventilation of the lungs (MVL) - BH is multiplied by the amplitude of respiratory movements.

A biopsy is also prescribed - a biopsy is taken from the site of fibrosis on an x-ray. Cystic fibrosis requires an analysis of sweat, feces for chymotrypsin and fatty acids, PCR diagnostics.

Principles of treatment

There is no specific treatment; there are only general recommendations that the patient must strictly follow.

The goal of treatment is:

• Exclusion of damaging factors; this includes a change of work activity, without options.
• Regular inhalation of oxygen; performed on an outpatient basis.
• Local fibrosis - does not require treatment, only dynamic observation; diffuse process requires a lung transplant. After the operation, patients live for at least 5 years.

Despite the fact that it is impossible to completely get rid of fibrosis, it is possible to significantly improve the quality of life of patients, which will also stop the process of pathology. Treatment for fibrosis is definitely unambiguous.

Reception of drugs is always combined with physiotherapy. Of the drugs, one can name the complex treatment of corticosteroids, cytostatics, antifibrotic agents. GCS - Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, etc. GCS is taken for 3 months, then another 2 years are taken as maintenance therapy.

Cytostatics - Azathioprine, Cyclophosphamide. Antifibrotic - Colchicine, Veroshpiron. They slow down the growth of connective tissue. This combination gives positive changes, but you need to take into account the side effects and constantly be under the supervision of a doctor. Diet No9.

Fibrous cystosis (FC) - has no specific treatment. It is treated with antibiotics, inhalations of a hypertonic saline solution and Salbutamol, Ambroxol, etc. The prognosis is unfavorable.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy in this case consists of oxygen therapy and breathing exercises. They improve blood flow, gas exchange, increase VC (vital capacity of the lungs).

Breathing exercises are an auxiliary type of treatment. In addition to it, cycling, morning jogging, brisk walking are also recommended. Fibrosis (lungs) doubles the load on the intercostal muscles and the remaining parenchyma, which causes rapid fatigue of the patient.

Therapeutic breathing exercises for pulmonary fibrosis and is aimed at minimizing stress and fatigue. In addition, exercise helps to expel mucus.

Respiratory gymnastics consists of a sequential alternation of abdominal, pulmonary and full breathing:

• Standing, breaths are taken and exhaled, but only with the stomach. The chest is held for control by the hand and is motionless. On inspiration - deep retraction of the abdomen.
• Only the chest works, the stomach is motionless. You need to breathe deeply and smoothly.
• Full breath. This is the final exercise. Inhalation begins with a protrusion of the abdomen; at maximum protrusion, you need to do a few more breaths to failure. Then a smooth exhalation is made by the chest.

Repeat each of the exercises 5-6 times daily. Gymnastics prevents congestion in the lungs.

To normalize gas exchange, exhalation is performed with resistance. A nasal inhalation is taken, exhalation through the mouth into a glass of water through a tube - repeat 10 times a day.

To remove pulmonary sputum, squeezing is done lying down. In the prone position, inhale, and as you exhale, press your knees to your chest and squeeze them. At the end of the exercise, cough.

ethnoscience

Pulmonary fibrosis: treatment and how to treat folk remedies? Traditional medicine is an auxiliary method, used after consultation with a doctor. Phytotherapy is effective in the initial stages of the disease.

Taking flax seed infusion relieves cough, reduces shortness of breath, it is taken several times a day. Anise decoction is also used - it improves the general well-being of the patient. Medicinal tea for cleansing lung tissue from mucus - infusion of violets and oregano - 3 doses per day.

It is useful to make compresses from crushed cabbage leaves or burdock in the evening. Patients with pneumosclerosis are well helped by taking a decoction of elecampane and wild rose roots - it is taken for 2 months. A decoction helps to get rid of sputum, mucus, helps regenerate lung tissue.

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs is a chronic pathology in which the parenchyma is replaced by connective tissue.. In the affected organ, scarring occurs against the background of a sluggish inflammatory process. Gradually, the respiratory and gas exchange function is lost and pulmonary insufficiency develops. The degeneration of healthy tissue is irreversible, and the task of medicine is to stop the progression of the disease and maintain the health of the patient. It is impossible to cure pneumofibrosis and restore the lungs.

Causes and mechanism of development of pneumofibrosis

The causes of the disease are different:

• infectious and inflammatory diseases - mycoses, tuberculosis, syphilis;
• prolonged exposure to allergens;
• mechanical injury;
• high doses of radiation;
• exposure to chemical compounds;
• hereditary disorders in which fibrillar protein is intensively produced - collagen, fibronectin;
• severe liver damage with drug addiction;
• long-term use of drugs that have a toxic effect on the lung parenchyma.

The risk group includes people with a history of COPD, bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia. Men are more often ill, whose professional activity is associated with the risk of negative impact of production processes on the respiratory system - miners, miners, metallurgists.

In pneumofibrosis, chronic inflammation is accompanied by a violation of the outflow of lymph from the affected organ.. It accumulates in the interalveolar septa and vessels of the lung. The movement of blood along the capillary bed is disturbed, the vessels become sclerotic and hypoxia develops. This process activates the production of fibroblasts and collagen, which further aggravates the process of blood circulation in the small circle.

Against the background of increased pulmonary pressure, dystrophic changes occur in the right half of the heart, it increases in size. The patient develops cor pulmonale syndrome. This is an extremely serious condition that leads to disability and eventually death.

With the rapid progression of pneumosclerosis (pneumofibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis), a healthy parenchyma is quickly rebuilt. The structure of the acinus itself, the structural unit of the lung, changes. Glandular pseudostructures are formed, capillaries weaken, decrease in volume, bronchioles become sclerosed. The growth of connective tissue in the lungs deforms the alveoli, they are destroyed, and fibrous and cystic neoplasms appear in their place.

Against the background of lung destruction, their main function is disrupted - providing the body with oxygen through gas exchange during breathing.

Patients develop respiratory failure with hypoxia (oxygen starvation) and hypercapnia (excess carbon dioxide in the blood).

Due to impaired perfusion (throughput) of the lungs, the level of oxygen in the body decreases. The ventilation-diffuse balance is disturbed. Due to hypoventilation, the level of carbon dioxide increases.

Kinds

Depending on the location and extent of lung damage, pneumosclerosis can be of several types.

Diffuse pneumofibrosis of the lungs is an overgrowth of connective tissue throughout the organ. With such a pathology, clear boundaries of the modified areas cannot be determined. Not only the lung is deformed, but also the bronchi, the vascular network.

Local pneumofibrosis of the lungs develops very slowly and is asymptomatic at the initial stages. It is characterized by damage to a limited area of ​​\u200b\u200btissues. The x-ray shows seals with clear contours. This type does not affect the functionality of the organ and its mechanical properties.

Focal pneumofibrosis of the lungs also has a clear location, as well as local. But differs in that inflammatory foci, as a rule, are multiple. They can affect one lung or both. The focal form develops against the background of tuberculosis, purulent-inflammatory processes (abscess).

Clinical picture of the disease

The first sign that gives reason to think about the presence of pathology in the body is shortness of breath.. But since it does not cause tangible discomfort at first, patients do not pay attention to it.

At the initial stage of the disease, this symptom manifests itself in the form of mild shortness of breath during physical exertion, which was previously well tolerated by the person. Patients attribute this fact to fatigue, malaise, poor sleep. Gradually, shortness of breath increases when walking on the street, climbing stairs. It is not easy for a person to walk long distances, to talk for a long time. In severe cases, shortness of breath manifests itself in the form of breath holding, lack of air. This state is always accompanied by panic fear.

The nature of breathing in pneumosclerosis is determined by the degree of lung damage. It is superficial, frequent, sometimes intermittent. The patient is unable to take a deep breath. This is how chronic respiratory failure develops. It is compensated for a long time, but inevitably leads to hypoxia.

Symptoms of respiratory failure in pneumosclerosis:

• cyanosis of the skin (pale skin with a blue tint);
• tachycardia - rapid heartbeat;
• dyspnea;
• the act of breathing is possible with the participation of auxiliary muscle groups;
• dizziness and headaches;
• sleep disturbance - insomnia at night, drowsiness during the day;
• loss of strength, chronic fatigue, decreased performance;
• loss of consciousness;
• in the later stages - heart failure, swelling of different parts of the body.

Against the background of airway obstruction, pneumosclerosis is always accompanied by a cough. It comes in different intensities. It intensifies in the morning after sleep, when a person begins to actively move, and calms down by the middle of the day. Cough brings temporary relief. With severe attacks, it causes pain in the chest, usually behind the sternum and from the back along the lower border of the shoulder blades.

"Pulmonary heart", which develops more intensively with pneumofibrosis of the middle lobe of the right lung, is manifested by such clinical signs:

• severe shortness of breath in a horizontal position (lying down);
• pulsation in the upper abdomen, in the region of the arch of the diaphragm;
• heart pains provoked by increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation and stretching of the pulmonary arterial trunk;
• swelling of the neck veins, which increases on inspiration;
• blood pressure may be slightly reduced;
• hypothermia;
• swelling.

The consequences of such irreversible processes are unfavorable.

Diagnosis of the disease

The study of patients is complex. It includes data collection, laboratory and instrumental techniques.

In order to determine the step-by-step direction in the examination of the patient, an anamnesis is collected. The patient is asked about the place of work, all the symptoms, the duration of the course of the disease, the estimated time of the onset of the first signs.

According to the laboratory data of the general blood test, no obvious changes are observed. Slightly elevated ESR, increased leukocyte count and clotting.

On auscultation - dry scattered or fine bubbling rales, hard breathing. With percussion - the sounds are short, the mobility of the pulmonary edge is limited.

Instrumental examination methods

X-ray of the lungs is the key diagnostic method.. It accurately allows you to determine the presence, localization and extent of lesions. The lung on the right is always slightly lower than the left. The drawing is rebuilt, looks like honeycombs or cells.

Interpretation of the results of x-rays:

• Basal pneumofibrosis of the lungs is a fibrous lesion of segments of the lower lobe of the lung, a consequence of the transferred inflammatory processes. It is also called postpneumonic fibrosis. In the affected area on the X-ray, increased brightness and a clear pattern are visible.
• Radical pneumofibrosis of the lungs is the proliferation of connective tissue in the region of the root of the lung, where it connects to the mediastinal organs (heart, aorta). The x-ray shows clear compacted areas.
• Linear pneumofibrosis of the lungs - the defeat of one or more segments of the lung, linear shadows are visible on the picture.
• Post-radiation pneumofibrosis is a complication after irradiation (during treatment or as a result of an accident). On the x-ray there are no clear boundaries of the affected tissue, the outlines are blurred.

To diagnose structural changes in pneumofibrosis of the basal and basal sections, computed tomography is prescribed, since these areas are not sufficiently visible and the replacement dystrophic process can spread to nearby organs. TC of the lungs allows layer-by-layer and detailed assessment of the degree of tissue damage, revealing their nature and dynamics of development.

To assess the functions of external respiration, patients are prescribed spirometry - a test that determines deviations in the respiratory function of the lungs. During the study, the following indicators are evaluated:

• lung volume (the amount of air inhaled at one time);
• breathing rate;
• maximum ventilation rates;
• vital capacity of the lungs;
• forced breathing;
• exhalation airflow rate.

Patients are also prescribed bronchoscopy. She assesses the condition of the bronchi in the affected lung. With diffuse pneumosclerosis, no changes are observed, and with local ones, destructive transformations of the bronchial tree are possible.

During a bronchoscopy, a sample of lavage fluid is taken from the lung. Cytological examination of the biomaterial allows you to determine the etiology of the disease.

Treatment of pneumofibrosis

Treatment of pulmonary fibrosis is palliative, aimed at maintaining the general condition of the patient and stopping or slowing down dystrophic processes in the organ.

Drug treatment involves the fight against an infectious factor - fungi, bacteria, viruses:

• To improve the drainage function of the bronchial tree, antispasmodic drugs are prescribed - Norepinephrine, Teofedrin, Isadrin, Fenoterol.
• In severe cases, pulmonary fibrosis can be treated with hormonal agents of the corticosteroid group - Cortisone, Prednisolone. They relieve the severity of inflammation, reduce the immune response.
• To eliminate airway obstruction, relieve cough and sputum discharge, mucolytic drugs (expectorants) are shown - Lazolvan, Erespal, Ascoril.
• To reduce severe pain in the chest area, patients are recommended non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - Nimesil, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen.
• To maintain the work of the heart muscle and saturate it with oxygen, cardiac glycosides are shown - Adonizide, Strofantin, Digoxin. To nourish the myocardium, patients take potassium preparations - Panangin, Asparkam.
• It is mandatory to prescribe angioprotectors - Actovegin, Cardioxipin, Vasonit, Bilobil. They improve microcirculation by relaxing the smooth muscles of blood vessels, increase permeability, relieve swelling.

Structural lesions of the lungs are accompanied by intoxication of the body. To eliminate it, I use a universal detoxifying agent - Penicillamine. The drug affects the immune system, inhibits the production of certain types of leukocytes, and also disrupts collagen synthesis, which is extremely important for pneumofibrosis. The medicine is available in capsules for oral administration.

Pneumofibrosis is a severe chronic pathology that weakens the body. Patients lose weight. Therefore, as part of a complex drug treatment, vitamin preparations of groups B and E are prescribed.

It is not advisable to treat pneumofibrosis of the lungs with folk remedies. Medicinal herbs can be used as a general strengthening therapy to support the immune system.

Patients must be treated twice a year in a hospital.

Physiotherapy

To combat hypoxia of tissues and organs, oxygen therapy is indicated - blood oxygen saturation.

The patient is connected to a special device through which the gas mixture is supplied in the required proportions. Thus, oxygen deficiency is temporarily eliminated.

O 2 supply methods:

• through a mask if a person breathes on his own;
• through a nasal catheter (if there is a need for a constant supply of oxygen);
• through an endotracheal tube if the patient is unconscious;
• by placing the patient in a pressure chamber.

Other physiotherapeutic procedures (UHF, electrophoresis, the use of currents) are ineffective for pneumofibrotic changes.

To combat shortness of breath, strengthen the respiratory muscles and improve the quality of life, patients undergo a rehabilitation course of physical therapy. Classes are held under the supervision of medical staff with clearly dosed physical activity.

Doing sports on your own is strictly contraindicated. Incorrect calculation of the loads on the heart and lungs can lead to fatal consequences.

Preventive actions

Prevention of pneumofibrosis includes measures that reduce the risk of developing the disease.

In industries with an increased risk of exposure to chemical compounds on the body, the rules of safety, labor protection and rest must be strictly observed. People whose professional activities are associated with risks are recommended to undergo annual treatment in a dispensary, in a mountainous area or near the sea.

Also it is important to exclude household factors - smoking, inhalation of vapors of chemical liquids (chlorine). Once a year, you need to undergo fluorography and medical examination (prophylactic examination of doctors).

If a person leads a healthy and active lifestyle, then the risks of the disease are reduced many times over.

Pneumofibrosis is a severe lung disease with a poor outcome. It is dangerous to human life, and it cannot be completely cured. If pathology is not detected in a timely manner, then the maximum life expectancy will not exceed 5 years.. In an extremely serious condition of the patient, maintenance therapy will delay the death by 3-5 months.

Pneumofibrosis is actually the final stage (outcome) of chronic lung tissue disease. The outcome of a long-term pathology leads to the fact that even the appearance of the lungs worsens significantly. They become like an organ eaten away by ulcers. In medicine, this kind of them is called a “cellular lung”.

Features of chronic diseases of the lung tissue (these diseases are called interstitial) are associated with inflammatory processes in the interstitial tissue (the so-called connective tissue of the lungs). Part of this tissue is called the interstitium. Small blood vessels pass through this tissue, through which the function of gas exchange is carried out (carbon dioxide is exhaled, oxygen is taken to be transferred to the cells of the body).

In a healthy state, the interstitial tissue is very thin and almost invisible on X-ray. But in chronic diseases, it begins to thicken due to inflammation, become covered with edema and scars (the same pleuropneumofibrosis develops). The simplest symptom of this transformation is shortness of breath.

Pneumofibrosis is a consequence of inflammatory and / or dystrophic processes of the lungs, in which the lung tissue is replaced by connective tissue. At the same time, the formation of a “honeycomb lung” is noted with the formation of cavities and cysts in the lung itself. Fibrosis - this is a "perforated" lesion of lung tissue.

Pneumofibrosis belongs to the general group of pneumosclerotic pulmonary pathology along with pneumosclerosis and cirrhosis of the lungs. Such states differ from each other in that of all the pneumofibrosis is characterized by the slowest rate of growth of connective tissue.

For reference. More often, pneumofibrosis develops in males.

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs - what is it

Currently, pneumofibrosis occurs, unfortunately, more and more often. This is explained by the fact that:

• The influence of harmful substances on the lungs is constantly increasing. The air we breathe becomes dirtier every day and slowly destroys lung tissue.
• The frequency of chronicity of pathological processes in the lung tissue increases, which steadily lead to the development of pneumofibrosis.
  The basis of pneumofibrosis is a gradual change in the elasticity of the lungs, deterioration of gas exchange processes.

The displacement of the lung tissue by the connective tissue occurs gradually. In general, the dynamics of such a process can be characterized by several stages of development:

• Progressive hypoxia in the lungs. The lack of oxygen activates fibroblasts - connective tissue cells, which, during hypoxia, begin to actively produce collagen. It is this, constantly formed, collagen that is the connective tissue that replaces the lung.
• Violation of lung ventilation. Under normal physiological conditions, the lung tissue is elastic and actively participates in the process of respiration. With an increase in the elasticity of the lung tissue, it becomes more difficult for the body to stretch it in order to perform full respiratory movements. Under such conditions, the pressure inside the lungs begins to rise, the walls of the alveoli are compressed.

  Normally, the alveoli should expand during inspiration, but since pneumofibrosis gradually covers the lung, many alveoli can no longer perform their functions, as they are affected by connective tissue. In turn, the connective tissue does not have sufficient elastic properties and the alveoli, which lose their elasticity, cease to participate in respiratory movements.

  This is because weak alveoli require little or no effort to stretch, the pressure in them decreases and they simply begin to collapse. Such areas are excluded from the breathing process, oxygen does not enter them, the functional surface of the lungs decreases.
  

• Violation of drainage functions. Inflammation of the bronchial wall leads to its edema. The ability to outflow the inflammatory secret (exudate) is significantly reduced and its accumulation occurs. Against the background of the constant accumulation of inflammatory fluid, favorable conditions develop for the onset of an infection, which will lead to inflammation of all other parts of the lung.

  At the same time, the bronchi begin to clog, intrapulmonary pressure changes, and the lobe or section of the lung with such affected bronchi begins to subside, not taking part in the performance of respiratory movements.
  

• Violation of lymph and blood circulation. The growth of connective tissue leads to compression of the pulmonary vessels. In such arteries and veins, congestion begins to develop. In the case of the duration of this position, the stagnant fluid begins to sweat through the vascular walls, forming areas of effusion. Such areas, finding no way out, also begin to be replaced by connective tissue, further worsening the condition of the lungs.

For reference. The result of such violations is respiratory failure.

Causes of pneumofibrosis

The development of pneumofibrosis is a long process that can last several decades. In the development of such a state, there are
a number of reasons:

• Syphilis.
• Tuberculosis.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Heredity.
• Constant inhalation of dust, harmful gases.
• Diseases of the cardiopulmonary system with symptoms of stagnation.
• Chest injury.
• Ionizing radiation.
• Hypoxia.
• The use of certain medicinal substances with a high toxicity profile.
• Fungal, viral, bacterial lung infections.
• Lung atelectasis.
• fibrosing alveolitis.
• Silicosis and other occupational diseases of the lung tissue.
• Vasculitis.

Any of these causes sooner or later becomes the direct cause of the loss of lung function due to the growth of connective tissue.

For reference. With a weakened immune system, even minor infections of the bronchi and lungs accelerate the development of pneumosclerosis.

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs consequences

The consequences of pulmonary fibrosis are obvious - the steady progression of connective tissue proliferation leads to a loss of lung capacity, loss of functionally active lung tissue, depletion of blood with oxygen, hypoxia and the development of respiratory failure, which ultimately in the vast majority of cases causes death of patients.

Do not forget about the development of pulmonary heart failure due to pneumofibrosis. The consequences of such a process are accompanied by loss of consciousness, edematous syndrome and the development of right ventricular hypertrophy.

Symptoms of pneumofibrosis

The leading clinical sign of pneumofibrosis is shortness of breath. At the beginning of the disease, it occurs with pronounced physical
loads and then at rest.

In general, the symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis depend on its type, but there are common signs that are observed in all patients:

• The development of a cough with the separation of viscous sputum, in which there is blood and pus.
• Pain in the chest, aggravated by coughing.
• Blue skin that first begins with acrocyanosis and then spreads to the entire surface of the skin. This phenomenon is associated with increasing hypoxia.
• Weakness, fatigue.
• Loss of body weight.
• Frequent alternation of low and high body temperature.
• Later, rales appear in the lungs.
• Bulging of the neck veins.
• Strengthening the symptoms of the underlying disease, which caused pneumofibrosis.

The progression of the disease is accompanied by the appearance of characteristic signs:

• Changes in the fingers of the upper extremities (“fingers of Hippocrates”) - while the phalanges thicken, the nails can take on the appearance of watch glasses.
• The development of hemoptysis, as a sign of insufficiency in the pulmonary circulation.

In its forms, pneumofibrosis varies depending on the cause, the extent of the lesion and the rate of spread.

Classification of pneumofibrosis

Radical

Most often, hilar pneumofibrosis of the lungs develops after suffering pneumonia, bronchitis. In such cases, it is not necessary to develop pneumofibrosis immediately, it can begin to form long after the underlying disease.

The main sign of hilar pneumofibrosis is the formation of areas of compaction in the lungs.

diffuse

Diffuse pneumofibrosis speaks for itself - it affects the entire lung tissue. This kind of pneumofibrosis faster than others leads to the development of respiratory failure in a short time. It is the most dangerous variety of all pneumofibrosis, since it can simultaneously affect both lungs. Very often complicated by the occurrence of pleuropneumofibrosis, involving the pleura in the pathological process.

Local

A more benign form of pneumofibrosis is considered local. In this case, a certain area of ​​the lung undergoes replacement with connective tissue.

Focal

Focal pneumofibrosis is similar to local, since it also does not involve the entire lung in the pathological process. The difference is that with focal pneumofibrosis, several pathological foci are formed.

Basal

Basal pneumofibrosis is characterized by the fact that the main affected areas are the base of the lungs. With this form, treatment is prescribed in the presence of inflammation, the addition of a secondary infection. If there are no such signs, then breathing exercises are recommended.

Limited

Limited pneumofibrosis is similar to local. It is also characterized by a long and slow progression. With this process, small foci of pneumofibrosis practically do not suppress the function of respiration and do not disturb gas exchange.

Linear

This variety occurs against the background of frequent pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis and other inflammatory diseases of the lungs.

interstitial

For interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, one of the distinguishing features is the early onset of dyspnea. The leading cause of interstitial lesions is vasculitis - inflammation of blood vessels of various sizes.

Postpneumonic

In postpneumonic pneumofibrosis, large-focal areas of fibrosis begin to form after inflammation. Most often, such pneumofibrosis develops simultaneously with pneumonia and other inflammatory processes in the lungs.

Heavy

Severe pneumofibrosis is the lot of heavy smokers. Constant inhalation of nicotine leads to dysfunction of the bronchi, sputum retention in them. Also, severe pneumosclerosis can develop in chronic pathology of the bronchopulmonary system.

post-inflammatory

This kind of pneumofibrosis can be the result of absolutely any inflammation in the lungs.

Moderate

Moderate pneumofibrosis is characterized by a slight damage to lung tissue.

Pneumofibrosis in children

Pneumofibrosis does not spare children either. The development of pneumofibrosis in childhood has the same causes as in adults. That is why it is necessary to pay close attention to diseases of the respiratory system in children, not to start them, to carry out prevention, hardening, to limit the child as much as possible from contact with harmful substances.

Diagnostics

The most important method for diagnosing pneumofibrosis is an x-ray of the lungs. With its help, it is possible to determine the first symptoms of the disease, pathological changes, concomitant diseases.

Also, with the help of X-ray diagnostics, pneumofibrosis is differentiated from lung cancer.

The main radiological signs of pneumofibrosis will be:

• Strengthening the pattern of the lungs.
• Deformation of the lung pattern.
• Expansion of vascular shadows.
• "Lung shadows" with sharp, uneven contours, which are lesions.
• Shadows that look like lines with a random direction, the formation of cells, which indicates the neglect of the process.

The next mandatory diagnostic method will be an assessment of the function of external respiration, vital capacity of the lungs and functional vital capacity.

The third necessary study will be bronchoscopy in order to recognize the form of the disease and exclude the oncological process.
As additional diagnostic measures, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography can be prescribed.

To diagnose lung diseases, you need to look for a qualified pulmonologist. Of course, a general practitioner or therapist can also make general recommendations. However, a specialist lung specialist such as a pulmonologist is preferable for complex cases.

Treatment of pneumofibrosis

Upon completion of all necessary diagnostic manipulations, it is necessary to begin treatment.

It is important that for pulmonary fibrosis treatment should be only complex with the use of all these therapeutic measures.

The main therapeutic measures aimed at improving the health of patients are:

• Treatment of the underlying disease that caused the development of pneumofibrosis.
• The use of broad-spectrum antibacterial drugs for signs of an infectious lesion (the choice of antibiotics depends only on the patient's condition and his concomitant pathologies.
• Appointment of expectorant drugs on a chemical and plant basis (ACC, Lazolvan, Bromhexine, licorice root, anise, rosemary).
• Taking glucocorticosteroids to enhance anti-inflammatory therapy (Prednisolone, Dexamethasone).
• Cardiac glycosides with concomitant heart failure (Korglikon, Strofantin).
• Vitamin therapy.
• Physiotherapeutic methods of treatment depending on the condition and indications.
• Therapy with oxygen.
• Breathing exercises.
• Diet.

Unfortunately, a complete cure for pneumofibrosis is currently impossible. The goal of treatment is to stop the pathological process, to preserve the activity of respiratory functions as much as possible and to delay the development of respiratory failure.

For reference. Running forms are an indication for surgical treatment.

Moreover, one should not hope that pneumofibrosis can be cured at home, at home. This approach can only worsen the course of the disease and its prognosis.

Attention! Treatment of pneumofibrosis is carried out only in a hospital!

All patients with a confirmed diagnosis of pneumofibrosis must be registered at the dispensary for at least a year.

Prevention

The main method of preventing pneumofibrosis is timely diagnosis, proper treatment of the underlying disease and pneumofibrosis itself, as well as the implementation of all doctor's recommendations.

Smokers, of course, will have to give up their bad habit.

Attention. If the labor activity of a person is associated with constant contact with dangerous and toxic substances, then the best option would be to abandon such a profession.

Pneumofibrosis prognosis

Since pneumofibrosis is not an independent disease, but is a consequence of the underlying pathology, the prognosis will primarily be determined by the severity of the cause of pneumofibrosis.

Important. The constant replacement of lung tissue with connective tissue leads to destruction, deformation of the bronchi, a decrease in lung volume, and their wrinkling.

With the development of severe pulmonary insufficiency, especially complicated by the addition of a secondary infection, deaths are frequent.

In general, for most forms of pulmonary fibrosis, the prognosis is considered relatively unfavorable due to the impossibility of a complete cure for the disease.