I have always enjoyed doing things on my own, and valued my independence while growing up. I want to continue to be as independent as possible for as long as possible. As a result, I find asking for help very difficult. This is partially due to not knowing how…
I Need to Trust You When You Say I’m Not a Burden
Ofev (nintedanib) is a treatment used for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). It is an anti-fibrotic drug that was approved by the FDA in October 2014 to help slow down the progression of the disease. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Ofev from the manufacturers, Boehringer Ingelheim. How…
Meet Pulmonary Fibrosis News columnist, Kim Fredickson. She was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis three years ago following chemotherapy and radiation therapy for breast cancer. MORE: The travails of dealing with supplemental oxygen. Over the past year, Kim’s health has declined so much that she’s now unable to…
INOpulse has shown promise in treating patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (PH-IPF), concludes a study by Bellerophon Therapeutics, developer of the inhaled nitrous oxide device. The study, “Unraveling the Mode of Action of Pulsed Inhaled NO in Severe IPF Using Functional Respiratory Imaging.” showed that PH-IPF…
The best thing about the pulmonary fibrosis community Over the last seven months of writing this column, I’ve learned that pulmonary fibrosis patients are brave, kind and supportive to one another. This is also true of their caregivers. I love watching our community develop as we share…
If you’ve been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, it’s likely that your healthcare team has mentioned pulmonary rehabilitation. But what is it and why do you need to do it? MORE: Eight tips for protecting your lungs from unhealthy air Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program that combines education, support, and exercise. The goal of…
Left to right, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel; Bill Vick, PF Warriors; Teresa Barnes, patient advocate; Tom Hurvis, Three Lakes Partners; Steven Collens, MATTER; and Ken Bahk, Three Lakes Partners. Photo Credit: Sean Su | CloudSpotter A group of philanthropists, medical-tech and business people have issued…
As the weather gets warmer here in Canada and everything begins to bloom for another year, it means summer is just a few weeks away. Summer has always been my favorite season. I love the warmth it brings because I despise being cold. I also love the…
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) patients are susceptible to lung infections which can often lead to hospitalization. According to the American Lung Association, there are several things you can do to help prevent lung infections. Practice Good Hygiene Regularly washing hands with soap and water — particularly before eating…
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive chronic lung disease where the tissue in the lungs becomes scarred and stiffens. This can lead to a multitude of symptoms including breathlessness, persistent coughing, fatigue, joint pain and for some patients, weight loss. Pulmonary fibrosis symptoms: Aching joints and muscles Weight loss…
