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Here at Lungs&You®, you can find information about pulmonary fibrosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and interstitial lung disease (ILD). ILD can be a serious condition that may cause scarring of the lungs. When ILD causes scarring of lungs, it’s often referred to as pulmonary fibrosis. There are many different types of ILD—some with known causes and some with unknown causes. IPF is one of the most common types of ILD and has an unknown cause.

Lungs&You® began as a helpful resource for people with IPF. Then, we broadened the site to include information about many types of ILD that can progress, or get worse over time, while maintaining our extensive support for those with IPF.

Looking for Answers but Don’t Know Where to Start?

Answer the questions below to find helpful resources about IPF and ILD, which may cause scarring of the lungs commonly referred to as pulmonary fibrosis.
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Could What You're Feeling Be a Sign of ILD?

ILD can be a serious disease that may lead to scarring of the lungs commonly
called pulmonary fibrosis. Watch to learn more about the warning signs.

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We're here for you.

Call 1-844-473-2638 for support.

Sometimes you have more questions than answers. Call the Lungs&You® Call Center to speak with someone who can help you get the information you need to help take an active role in your health.

Keep in mind, Lungs&You® does not provide medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific questions about your health.

Causes of ILD

ILD can be caused by a variety of things like certain underlying autoimmune diseases, environmental substances, occupational exposures, and more. Sometimes the cause of ILD is unknown. Explore some common causes of ILD below.

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Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune Conditions

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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Scleroderma

Sjögren’s syndrome

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD)

Myositis

Environmental Substances

Environmental Substances

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Repeated exposure to certain environmental substances can lead to a type of ILD called hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). These substances may include:

Hay and grain

Mold

Wood dust

Bird droppings and feathers

Hot tubs

Air conditioner, humidifier, and ventilation systems

Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis

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Occupational

Occupational
Dusts or Fibers

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Silica

Asbestos fibers

Coal

Sand

Farming and livestock

Unknown Causes

Unknown Causes

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Sometimes the cause of ILD is unknown. When there is not a known cause, it’s called an idiopathic interstitial pneumonia. There are different types of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias, including:

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)


Idiopathic non-specific interstitial pneumonia (iNSIP)

Unclassifiable ILD

Other

Other

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Smoking

Medications

Unsure What to Do After an ILD Diagnosis?

We’re here to help. Learning to monitor and manage ILD with worsening fibrosis takes time, but we have collected many resources to help you or your loved one find a path forward.

We know how lost you might feel while searching for answers about ILD and how it may progress over time, but we’re here to support you.
Sign up to have information about ILD and how it may progress, including real stories and encouragement from people living with the disease, sent right to your inbox.
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You’re not alone in this
—Lungs&You® is just a phone call away.

Do you have questions but no answers about your lung health? Are you looking to connect with someone who can help? Call us—we’re here for you.

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1-844-473-2638

Monday - Friday, 9 am - 6 pm ET

Keep in mind, Lungs&You® does not provide medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific questions about your health.

Find Pulmonologists Near You
Pulmonologists are experts in the lungs and lung diseases. They are the type of specialist who may be best equipped to help you diagnose and understand ILD.

Could You Be at Risk for ILD?

If you have been diagnosed with another condition known to cause ILD, you could be at increased risk of developing the disease.