9 Ways to Better Manage Your Pulmonary Fibrosis

Living with pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is difficult, both physically and emotionally. However, there are ways that you can manage your condition which will help you to improve your quality of life and reduce the stress associated with having a chronic illness. We’ve compiled a list of nine ways you can better manage your pulmonary fibrosis based on information from the American Lung Association.

Keep on top of your medications

Always take your medications on time and at the correct dosage. Make sure you have extra so you don’t unexpectedly run out, and carry your medications with you if you go out.

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Get new symptoms checked out

It’s important that you seek the advice of your healthcare team if you start experiencing different or new symptoms and if you’re generally not feeling well. Don’t wait thinking it will just pass.

Catch our columnist Kim Fredrickson’s Facebook Live session about being a good friend to yourself.

Get vaccinated

Make sure you have an annual flu shot before winter sets in and speak to your healthcare team about whether you need a vaccine for pneumonia.

Find out more about managing pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. 

Exercise

Speak to your healthcare team about what exercises would be good for you and try to do a little each day. This will help you to feel healthier and also help you sleep better.

Aerobic and other exercise training should be standard of care for pulmonary fibrosis patients.

Stop smoking

Don’t put your lungs under any more pressure by smoking. Speak to your healthcare team about getting help with quitting. Avoid other people who smoke and stay away from smoky areas. Make your home a smoke-free zone.

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Maintain a healthy body weight

If you’re underweight or overweight speak to your healthcare team about a specially designed diet to help get you to a healthy body weight.

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Eat smaller meals

If you struggle to breathe after a big meal, consider eating smaller meals more often.

Find out what it’s like to live with pulmonary fibrosis.

Look after your emotional health

Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health, speak to your doctor if you’re feeling depressed or anxious, they’ll be able to help you.

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Join a support group

If there’s a local support group for fellow PF patients, join it. If not, then look into joining an online forum or support group. Being able to talk to people who share the same experiences will help you with any feelings of isolation. They’ll also be able to provide a different kind of support than your friends and family.

Read our columnist Kim Fredrickson’s advice on making friends with your emotions. 

Pulmonary Fibrosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.