Options for Supplemental Oxygen at Home

Options for Supplemental Oxygen at Home

Over the last two-plus years I have become an unwilling expert on the ins and outs of supplemental oxygen. When I started using supplemental oxygen I knew next to nothing and found it very hard to get the help and information I needed. I’ve learned a lot and…

7 Physical Clues You Could Have Depression

Many people who suffer from chronic illnesses also suffer from depression. Depression isn’t something that should be overlooked; it should be brought to your doctor’s attention so that it can be treated. But how do you spot depression?  With help from prevention.com, we’ve put together a list of some of the most common physical signs…

Esbriet and Ofev Improve Pulmonary Fibrosis Lung Function, but Not N-acetylcysteine, Study Suggests

Using Esbriet (pirfenidone) or Ofev (nintedanib) for a year reduces lung function decline in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients, according to a review of nine clinical trials. Esbriet may also improve patients’ survival. But N-acetylcysteine failed to improve lung function or decrease mortality, the comparative study indicated. The article, “…

How a Runner in His 70s Cheats Pulmonary Fibrosis

When 78-year-old Bill Vicks was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2011, doctors gave him three years to live according to an article in capecodtimes.com. The super-fit septuagenarian did what he does best—dons his sneakers and goes out for a run. MORE: How to live for the moment with…

Chicago’s ‘Fight for Air Climb’ Attracts 2,000 Climbers

When Maureen McDonald’s father passed away from pulmonary fibrosis, she wanted to do something to celebrate his life and raise awareness of the chronic lung disease. She decided to join the annual American Lung Association Greater Chicago Chapter’s “Fight for Air Climb.” MORE: Animated film explains symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis.

Patient Advocacy: A Privilege or a Curse?

I had an experience last night in the emergency room that has left me thinking a lot. So I decided to turn my thoughts into a column — and I am curious to hear how those of you also living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) feel about patient…

Is Pulmonary Fibrosis Genetic?

Although most cases of pulmonary fibrosis are not genetic and often unknown when it is called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, there are rare cases where the condition runs in families suggesting a genetic link to the disease. MORE: The relationship between pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension. Researchers have isolated…