Seals in the lungs treatment with folk remedies. Pulmonary fibrosis treatment with folk remedies. Treatment of pneumofibrosis with folk remedies

Pulmonary fibrosis is proliferation of connective tissue, provoked by inflammation and pathological processes. Growing fibrous (connective) tissue begins to replace the pulmonary areas, where cavity formations are formed. As a result, in the affected areas, elasticity decreases, functioning and metabolism are disturbed.

Is pneumofibrosis cancer? Pathology is not an oncological disease, damage to lung tissues occurs due to the active growth of not cancer cells, but ordinary connective tissue.

Causes of pulmonary fibrosis

Pathology is a consequence of inflammatory and degenerative processes that develop in the respiratory system. The main causes of the disease include:

Lesions of an infectious-inflammatory nature of a different nature (bacterial, fungal, viral);
Chronic lung obstruction;
Heredity, congenital factor;
General allergic reactions;
Bronchial asthma;
Occupational diseases. Damage and inflammatory processes occur as a result of exposure to toxic substances (amylosis, silicosis, anthracosis, asbestosis);
Taking medications for a long time;
Irradiation;
Tuberculosis;
Syphilis;
Injuries, injuries of the chest;
Intensive smoking.

Classification of pulmonary fibrosis

Pathology is divided into types, depending on the location, degree of damage:

Diffuse pulmonary fibrosis is the most dangerous form of the disease, characterized by multiple lesions or changes in the entire lung tissue. The diffuse form of the pathology is characterized by rapid progression, the development of severe respiratory failure. In most cases, the condition is accompanied by the development of pleurofibrosis. Pleuropneumofibrosis of the lungs is a lesion of the pleura, its replacement with fibrous tissue;
Basal pneumofibrosis of the lungs is a lesion of the lower (basal) parts of the lung;
Local pneumofibrosis of the lungs is the growth of fibrous tissue in a certain area of \u200b\u200bthe organ;
Radical pneumofibrosis of the lungs is a lesion of the junction of the lung with the organs of the mediastinum. In most cases, the pathology is a consequence of past diseases of the respiratory system (bronchitis, pneumonia), inflammatory and degenerative processes. It is characterized by seals on lung tissue;
Apical pneumofibrosis of the lungs is an overgrowth of fibrous tissue localized at the top of the organ;
Linear pneumofibrosis of the lungs is a fibrous change in the body's own tissue. Pathology occurs as a result of inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system;
Limited pneumofibrosis of the lungs is a tissue change that affects a specific part of the organ. The lesion has clear boundaries. Pathology does not adversely affect gas exchange and ventilating functions of organs;
Severe pulmonary fibrosis is a pathological condition resulting from chronic inflammatory processes in the lungs.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic procedures to detect pneumofibrosis include:

Radiography. The examination accurately reveals the location, the degree of damage to the pathology, changes in the structure of the organ;
Changes in blood flow in the vessels of the lungs, disturbances in the vascular system of the respiratory system, determines angiopulmonography;
Computed and magnetic resonance imaging;
Conducting spirography. The procedure allows to determine the decrease in the mechanical abilities of the respiratory organs, to assess the degree of volume reduction and increase in respiratory rate;
Biopsy.

Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis

The main clinical manifestation of the pathology is shortness of breath, which initially occurs during physical exertion, then it is constantly present, regardless of physical activity.

Common symptoms of the disease include:

Coughing fits, initially dry, over time - with sputum;
Constantly present pain in the chest;
cyanosis of the skin;
Decrease in weight indicators;
Weakness, fatigue;
Wheezing in the lungs;
Temperature fluctuations.

With the development of pathology, the following signs join:

Fingers change. Phalanges become thicker, nails - dense and convex;
Cough with blood.

Treatment of pulmonary fibrosis

The danger of pulmonary fibrosis lies in the possible development of severe complications: heart, respiratory failure, lung cancer, thromboembolism. Scientific studies have shown that the risk of developing cancer in patients with pneumofibrosis is several times higher than in healthy people. Therefore, timely, complex corrective therapy is important, which normalizes the patient's condition and prevents the development of complications.

After diagnosing the disease, the specialist prescribes complex therapy, the task of which is to relieve the symptoms of the pathology, blocking the growth of connective tissue.

Medical therapy

For the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, drugs are used:

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) aimed at relieving inflammation and pain in the sternum. Diclofenac, Nimesil, Ibuprofen are prescribed;
In severe inflammatory processes, glucocorticosteroids (steroid hormones) are used. Often they are used to treat linear pneumofibrosis. Main drugs: Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone;
Cytostatic agents that do not allow connective tissue to grow further. Apply Azathioprine, Cyclophosphamide;
antibiotics;
Antifibrotic drugs: Veroshpiron, Colchicine;
Antitussives and expectorants: Ambroxol, Eufillin, Salbutamol;
Drugs that support the work of the heart and prevent the development of heart failure: Methotrexate, Stofantin.

Surgery

In especially severe cases and the low effectiveness of drug therapy, surgical intervention is prescribed. The operation is necessary in the following cases:

hypoxia;
A significant decrease in the vital volume of the lungs;
Decreased mechanical ability of the respiratory organs;
Significant respiratory failure.

Extensive lesions require replacement of one or 2 organs. The operation takes several hours. Before surgical procedures, the patient is prescribed special therapy. During the recovery period, the patient must take drugs that exclude rejection of the replaced organ.

In the surgical treatment of local pneumofibrosis, when the lesions are not extensive, a lobectomy is performed. During the procedure, the affected area is excised.

Contraindications to the operation are:

Hepatitis;
kidney failure;
Serious diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Massotherapy

Massage manipulations can improve respiratory function, alleviate general symptoms. After the procedures, the intensity of coughing decreases, muscles become stronger, and blood flow is restored.

Massage procedures are carried out by a specialist by manual action or with the help of special equipment. To achieve the greatest effect, before starting manipulations, the patient is recommended to take expectorant and antitussive drugs.

The main types of massage include:

Vacuum massage, during which vacuum cans are used. After the procedure, blood circulation in the lungs is normalized;
Honey procedures. Massage manipulations are carried out using honey. This has a warming effect, activates blood circulation;
Drainage, vibration procedures, due to which gas exchange is restored.

oxygen therapy

The purpose of the procedure is to saturate the patient's body with oxygen. The gas enters the human body through inhalation, through the respiratory tract. Pure oxygen and mixtures with it are used. Inhalation is performed using special tubes, nasal catheters, masks for the nose and mouth.

Oxygen therapy allows you to achieve the following results:

Normalization of the oxygen level in the blood leads to the restoration of gas exchange in the patient's body;
A sufficient concentration of gas leads to an improvement in metabolic processes in the lungs;
Significantly relieved symptoms;
Blood circulation is normalized;
The general condition of the patient is improving.

Breathing exercises

Therapeutic breathing exercises are one of the most effective ways of additional therapy.

The task of breathing exercises is to reduce fatigue, weakness, and relieve the patient's tension. A special execution technique allows you to accelerate blood circulation, improve respiratory function, and alleviate the patient's condition. Stagnation is removed, sputum is better removed. Gymnastics is one of the effective ways to treat focal pneumofibrosis, as it helps to relieve inflammation that leads to the growth of scar tissue, improves metabolic processes and the protective functions of healthy tissues.

The complex consists of 3 stages:

A breath is taken with maximum inflation of the abdomen. The diaphragm is motionless, which is controlled by the hand lying on the chest. Exhalation is made with retraction of the abdomen;
Then diaphragmatic breathing is performed. Inhalation is carried out by the lungs, the stomach is motionless. You need to try to inhale and exhale as deeply and slowly as possible;
The final stage combines united breathing. Inhalation is made with inflating the abdomen, then 3 breaths are taken with its maximum protrusion. Then exhalation is done through the chest.

diet therapy

Particular attention in pneumofibrosis is given to the diet. It is necessary to exclude spicy, overly salty, fatty foods. Increase the amount of consumed vegetables, cereals, fruits with a high content of vitamin C. It is necessary to eat fish, milk and dairy products, meat, seafood.

Treatment of pulmonary fibrosis with folk remedies

Among the effective methods of traditional medicine used as an additional treatment, use:

Anise decoction, which restores lung tissue, improves the general condition. 1 tablespoon of seeds is poured with a glass of boiling water, the liquid is brought to a boil and immediately removed from the stove. The broth should be cooled and taken in the morning and evening;
Flax seeds, the infusion of which reduces shortness of breath, relieves cough. 1 tbsp seeds are poured with a glass of boiling water, infused for 20 minutes. The infusion is taken three times a day.

Prevention

The main preventive measures include:

Absolute rejection of bad habits;
Immunity strengthening: feasible physical activity, proper rest, balanced healthy nutrition, stable psycho-emotional background;
Regular visits to a pulmonologist to monitor the course of the disease, compliance with all doctor's recommendations.

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 according to 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.

Nature created tissues in the human body in a rational, limited way.

When various pathologies arise, they can change their shapes and volumes.

Such a phenomenon is observed with an ailment: pulmonary fibrosis.

Treatment with folk remedies is possible only after examination by a doctor, according to his appointment.

When pneumofibrosis occurs in the lung tissues, an abnormal growth of connective substances occurs. Such an ailment does not form by itself, but is the cause of an already existing one. It is not distributed by gender; both men and women suffer from it.

It is important to contact the clinic in time so that there are no dangerous consequences in the form of violations:

elastic
dystrophic
decrease in gas exchange in the respiratory system
deformation

According to the conditions of vital functions, a person breathes, but if he is sick, he constantly lacks air, which causes deformation of the respiratory tract and their main tool -.

But for the appearance of pneumofibrosis, a provocation is needed, it can be an acquired infection or mechanical damage.

When diseases are poorly treated in cases where they are not correctly determined by the attending physician or the patient self-medicates in an inappropriate way, two types of pathology may occur:

local with compacted segments of lung tissues and mild pathological
diffuse in the form of a more severe form, with a violation of the normal lung structure with a decrease in volume, an increase in seals

During local pneumofibrosis, gas exchange in the lungs does not significantly decrease, a change in mechanical properties, their elasticity also does not occur.

A completely different process occurs with a diffuse disease, in this case, full-fledged pulmonary ventilation is significantly reduced.

But the varieties of the disease are not limited to this, in nature there are also:

linear, with scarring
basal, damaging the lungs in the lower part
basal, speak for themselves, arise in the roots

x-ray
estimation of the value by the Tiffno index
bronchological methods

Thanks to x-rays, it is possible to identify the presence of the first signs and the appearance of the disease at the first stage, to determine concomitant pathologies.

The x-ray machine will show:

reinforced pulmonary pattern with its deformation contours
expansion of vascular shadows
affected departments
violations in the directions of various branches

With the help of the index, its abnormal decrease, changes in external respiration and the nature of lung damage are determined.

The study of the bronchi allows you to assess the foci of pneumofibrosis, to determine its type.

How are they treated

In outpatient treatment, the doctor begins by identifying and eliminating the causes. He tries to localize the primary disease with medication, prescribes all methods, until the clinic of the disease is destroyed, until the x-ray shows clean lungs.

Experts have many ways to deal with the disease, among them are the following:

antibiotic therapy with the appointment of macrolides and cephalosporins
physiotherapy
administration of expectorants
body position while sleeping
whether cardiac glycosides are needed in the form of strophanthin and corglixone
do not forget the appointment of a vitamin program in conjunction with physiotherapy

To alleviate the suffering of patients, doctors do not miss showing them special respiratory movements, conducting oxygen therapy in order to saturate the body with oxygen.

other methods

A great helper to therapists are folk healers and their methods of healing, but only as an addition to the main treatment.

The specialist himself will prescribe, if the diagnosis revealed pulmonary fibrosis, herbal treatment, and they will help improve breathing, ease shortness of breath, and strengthen the immune system.

Aloe, popular among the people, belongs to medicinal indoor plants. Its leaves contain a lot of vitamins and minerals. Based on it, tinctures, mixtures and rubbing are made.

In conjunction with the use of medications, having received medical approval, and only scars after tuberculoma remain on the lungs, the condition of pneumofibrosis will improve if you include in the nutritional diet (three times a day, 25 g) a mixture consisting of ingredients:

internal mutton or any animal fat - 100 gr.
walnut - 100 gr.
honey - 100 gr.
aloe leaves - 100 gr.

It is very simple to make a homogeneous mass, all solid elements are twisted in a meat grinder. The internal fat and honey are melted over low heat, do not bring to a boil and mix thoroughly.

Well cleans the respiratory tract, prepared tincture:

need red wine -1 glass
honey - 2 tbsp. l.
aloe leaves - 6 large leaves

The leaves are chopped, added to wine, mixed with honey. All funds received are stored in a cold place, used before eating, but not more than three times a day and not more than 1 tablespoon.

Eucalyptus is used as an antiseptic. It has many therapeutic effects in various pulmonary diseases, heart ailments, and nervous breakdowns.

It is very easy to make a medicinal potion with its leaves. You need to take boiling water and put crushed there, you can apply immediately after 20 minutes. To enhance the effect, honey is added to the solution.

The use does not require time limits, but in order to avoid accumulation formations, it is better to change the herbs after a month of taking.

The use of common pikulnik, creeping thyme also has a beneficial effect on the body and respiratory tract. The manufacturing method is identical to eucalyptus, the herbs are simply brewed like tea.

A decoction of oat grains is considered a therapeutic method for pulmonary pathology. It is also consumed before meals. To do this, at night, the cereal (1 cup) is poured with water (1 l.), And before breakfast, the solution is heated to a boil, and continue to heat until the water is reduced by half. You can drink the strained broth in a warm form.

There are many tips to alleviate the plight of a sick person, but the surest is to contact a professional.

About idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - on video:

♦ Heading: .

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 likely to get sick, whose professional activities are associated with the risk of a 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.

I have pneumofibrosis. How can it be treated in Russia? One of its manifestations is my asthma. I read that injections of the drug LONGIDAZA help soften the connective tissue in the area of the blood flow of the liver, since when the connective tissue becomes inflamed, it coarsens and it limits the blood flow to the liver, which purifies the blood. I spoke with one therapist and he wanted to send me to the district, they say, they will treat you with hormonal drugs. I don't like hormonal drugs. Maybe there is something else? Like the drug LONGIDAZA and oxygen therapy, for example. I have to work, and when I lift weights, I get muscle spasm and an asthma attack begins with a decent time to normalize breathing. I wrote to doctors in Israel - they seem to be cured there, but they still need money. What do you advise?

Yuriy, Lugansk

Hello! Pulmonary emphysema, pneumofibrosis, chronic bronchitis with an asthmatic component (or obstructive chronic bronchitis), and speaking in modern "medical" language - chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - this is a pathological condition of the lung tissue when more air accumulates in it than it is should be. With emphysema, bronchial expiratory resistance increases. Pulmonary emphysema, chronic obstructive bronchitis, as a rule, is accompanied by pneumosclerosis.

Mix viburnum broth with honey (if there is no allergy to honey!) - to thin sputum and alleviate cough. Take 1 tablespoon 3 times a day. The course is 2.5-3 months. A break of 2 months and again a course of 2.5-3 months.
Decoction of turnip garden. Grind the root crop and cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Drink 100 ml 3 times a day.
Turnip juice with honey. Drink 1 dessert spoon 3-4 times a day.
Mumiyo (pharmaceutical preparation) 1 capsule or tablet (0.2 g) in the morning, on an empty stomach, drink 2-3 sips of warm milk or grape juice. Course 20 days. Break - 1 month and again the course - 20 days. Yes, six months.
. Pour 1 cup of washed oats with 1 liter of distilled water at room temperature; insist 10 hours. Put on low heat, boil for 30 minutes. Remove from heat, wrap and let it brew for 12 hours. Strain. Top up to the original volume, i.e. up to 1 liter with distilled water. Take 100 ml 3 times a day, before meals. The course is 1.5 months. Break 1 month and repeat the course - 1.5 months. So for 1.5 years.
To reduce the viscosity of mucus, a mixture of horseradish and lemon juice is a good remedy. Grate horseradish, take 100-150 g in a bottle. Add the juice of 2 lemons to it - you get a thick sauce. Insist 1 day. Take 1 teaspoon in the morning and afternoon daily. Do not drink water or tea. In the first days of taking the medicine, it will cause watery eyes, but in the following days you will “cry” less and less. According to the healers, "The more tears, the less mucus left in the bronchi." Horseradish should be fresh, no more than a week old. The medicine (sauce) can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Iris. A decoction of dried and crushed iris roots acts as a blood-purifying, expectorant, sputum-thinning agent. With pneumosclerosis, emphysema, bronchial asthma, with bronchiectasis, with obstructive bronchitis, take a decoction of 1 dessert spoon every two to three hours. Preparation 1 tablespoon of crushed iris roots is boiled in 300 ml of water for 7-10 minutes. Leave for 1 hour. Strain. Add honey to taste.
Common thyme. It is used as an expectorant and disinfectant for chronic (and obstructive) bronchitis, pneumosclerosis, bronchiectasis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia. It helps to relieve cough with whooping cough and tracheitis. Pour 2 tablespoons of herbs into 300 ml of water and boil in a water bath for 15-20 minutes. Cool, strain. Take 50 g 4-5 times a day.
Every day for 3 months, drink tea from the herb Origanum vulgaris. Course 3 months; a break of 1 month and again a course of 3 months.
Coltsfoot. Infusion of leaves is used for pneumosclerosis, bronchial asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, laryngitis. Brew 4 teaspoons of crushed leaves with a glass of boiling water, leave for 1 hour, strain. Drink 80 ml 3-4 times a day.

You should draw up a treatment plan for yourself, with alternating courses of treatment with drugs (2-3 drugs each), so that during breaks in taking some drugs, start treatment with others. You just need to show patience and perseverance, not giving up treatment halfway through.

And my advice to you ... In no case do not take this as an advertisement. Moscow has Doctor Buteyko Center. This wonderful specialist just specializes in lung diseases. I strongly advise you to call there and talk to the doctor of the Center. Phones (495) - 101-41-77 (Buteyko clinic); 304 - 18 - 89 and (495) - 176 - 00 - 63. Be sure to call and tell us about what is happening to you. It may turn out that in this Center or in its branches you will be helped to recover.

Health to you, health!