Restoration of lung tissue using folk remedies. Pneumofibrosis of the lungs - what is it and why is it dangerous? Treatment with folk remedies

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs is 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, respiratory and gas exchange function is lost and pulmonary failure develops. The degeneration of healthy tissue is irreversible, and the task of medicine is to stop the progression of the disease and maintain the patient’s health. It is impossible to cure pulmonary fibrosis 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 injuries;
• high doses of radiation;
• impact chemical compounds;
• hereditary disorders in which fibrillar protein is intensively produced - collagen, fibronectin;
• severe liver damage due to drug addiction;
• long-term use of drugs that cause toxic effects on .

The risk group includes people with a history of COPD, bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pneumonia. More often, men whose professional activities are associated with the risk of negative effects of production processes on the respiratory system - miners, miners, metallurgists - get sick.

For pneumofibrosis chronic inflammation accompanied by a violation of the outflow of lymph from the affected organ. It accumulates in the interalveolar septa and lung vessels. The movement of blood along the capillary bed is disrupted, 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 pulmonary circulation.

Against the background of increased pulmonary pressure, dystrophic changes V right half heart, it increases in size. The patient develops cor pulmonale syndrome. This is an extremely serious condition that leads to disability and ultimately to fatal outcome.

With the rapid progression of pneumosclerosis (pneumofibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis), healthy parenchyma is quickly rebuilt. The structure of the acini itself, the structural unit of the lung, changes. Glandular pseudostructures form, capillaries weaken, decrease in volume, bronchioles become sclerotic. 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– 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 ( bandwidth) lungs, the level of oxygen in the body decreases. The ventilation-diffusion balance is disrupted. Due to hypoventilation, the level of carbon dioxide increases.

Kinds

Depending on the location and extent of lung damage, pneumosclerosis comes in several types.

Diffuse pulmonary fibrosis is the proliferation of connective tissue throughout the organ. With such pathology, clear boundaries of the modified areas cannot be determined. Not only the lung is deformed, but also the bronchi and vascular network.

Local pulmonary fibrosis develops very slowly and initial stages is asymptomatic. It is characterized by damage to a limited area of ​​tissue. On x-ray seals with clear contours are visible. This type does not affect the functionality of the organ and its mechanical properties.

Focal pulmonary fibrosis also has a clear location, like local one. But differs in that inflammatory foci are usually 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 any noticeable 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 activity, which was previously well tolerated by the person. Patients attribute this fact to fatigue, malaise, bad dream. Gradually, shortness of breath increases when walking on the street or climbing stairs. It is not easy for a person to walk long distances or talk for a long time. IN severe cases shortness of breath manifests itself in the form of holding your breath, lack of air. This condition is always accompanied by panic.

The nature of breathing in pneumosclerosis is determined by the degree of lung damage. It is superficial, frequent, sometimes intermittent. The patient cannot take a deep breath. This is how chronic respiratory failure develops. She long time is compensated, but inevitably leads to hypoxia.

Symptoms respiratory failure with pneumosclerosis:

• cyanosis 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, edema different parts 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 move actively, and calms down by the middle of the day. The cough brings temporary relief. At severe attacks it causes pain in the chest, usually behind the sternum and on the back side lower limit shoulder blades

“Pulmonary heart”, which develops more intensively with pneumofibrosis of the middle lobe of the right lung, is manifested by the following clinical signs:

• severe shortness of breath in horizontal position(lying);
• pulsation in the upper abdomen, in the area of ​​the vault of the diaphragm;
• heart pain caused by high blood pressure in the pulmonary circulation and stretching of the pulmonary arterial trunk;
• swelling of the neck veins, which increases with 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 comprehensive. It includes data collection, laboratory and instrumental techniques.

In order to determine the step-by-step direction in examining the patient, anamnesis is collected. The patient’s place of work, all symptoms, duration of the disease, and the estimated time of appearance of the first signs are ascertained.

According to laboratory data of a general blood test, no obvious changes are observed. Slightly increased ESR, increased leukocyte count and coagulability.

On auscultation – dry scattered or fine wheezing, hard breathing. During percussion, the sounds are short, the mobility of the pulmonary edge is limited.

Instrumental examination methods

Key diagnostic methods is an x-ray of the lungs. It allows you to accurately determine the presence, location and extent of lesions. Lung on the right always slightly lower than left. The drawing is rearranged and looks like a honeycomb or cells.

Interpretation of X-ray results:

• Basal pulmonary fibrosis is a fibrotic lesion of segments of the lower lobe of the lung, a consequence of past inflammatory processes. It is also called post-pneumonic fibrosis. In the affected area, the x-ray shows increased brightness and a clear pattern.
• Hilar pulmonary fibrosis - proliferation of connective tissue in the area lung root, where the connection with the mediastinal organs (heart, aorta) occurs. The x-ray shows clear compacted areas.
• Linear pulmonary fibrosis - damage to one or more lung segments, linear shadows are visible in the photo.
• 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.

For diagnostics structural changes pneumofibrosis of the hilar 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, identifying their nature and dynamics of development.

To assess external respiratory function, patients are prescribed spirometry, a test that determines abnormalities in the respiratory function of the lungs. During the study, the following indicators are assessed:

• lung volume (the amount of air inhaled at one time);
• breathing rate;
• maximum ventilation rates;
• vital capacity of the lungs;
• forced breathing;
• speed of air flow during exhalation.

Patients are also prescribed bronchoscopy. She assesses the condition of the bronchi in the affected lung department. With diffuse pneumosclerosis, no changes are observed, but with local pneumosclerosis, destructive transformations are possible bronchial tree.

During a bronchoscopy, a sample of lavage fluid is taken from the lung. Cytological examination biomaterial allows you to determine the etiology of the disease.

Treatment of pneumofibrosis

Treatment of pulmonary fibrosis is palliative, aimed at maintaining general condition patient and stopping or slowing down degenerative processes in the organ.

Drug treatment involves combating infectious factors - fungi, bacteria, viruses:

• To improve the drainage function of the bronchial tree, antispasmodic drugs are prescribed - Norepinephrine, Theophedrine, Isadrin, Fenoterol.
• In severe cases, pulmonary fibrosis can be treated with hormonal drugs from the corticosteroid group - Cortisone, Prednisolone. They relieve inflammation and reduce the immune response.
• To eliminate obstruction of the respiratory tract, relieve cough and sputum discharge, mucolytic drugs (expectorants) are indicated - Lazolvan, Erespal, Ascoril.
• For decreasing severe pain in the chest area, patients are recommended non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - Nimesil, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen.
• To maintain the functioning of the heart muscle and saturate it with oxygen, cardiac glycosides are indicated - Adoniside, Strophanthin, Digoxin. To nourish the myocardium, patients take potassium preparations - Panangin, Asparkam.
• IN mandatory angioprotectors are prescribed - Actovegin, Cardioxipin, Vazonit, Bilobil. They improve microcirculation through relaxation smooth muscle 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 has an effect on immune system, inhibits the production of certain types of leukocytes, and also disrupts collagen synthesis, which is extremely important for pulmonary fibrosis. 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 comprehensive drug treatment appoint vitamin preparations groups B and E.

It is not advisable to treat pulmonary fibrosis with folk remedies. Medicinal herbs can be used as a general strengthening therapy to support the immune system.

Patients must undergo hospital treatment twice a year.

Physiotherapy

To combat hypoxia of tissues and organs, oxygen therapy is indicated - oxygen saturation of the blood.

The patient is connected to a special device through which a gas mixture is supplied in the required proportions. This temporarily eliminates oxygen deficiency.

O2 supply methods:

• through a mask if the person breathes independently;
• through a nasal catheter (if there is a need for a constant supply of oxygen);
• through endotracheal tube if the patient is unconscious;
• by placing the patient in a pressure chamber.

Other physiotherapeutic procedures (UHF, electrophoresis, application of currents) are ineffective for pneumofibrotic changes.

To combat shortness of breath, strengthen respiratory muscles and improve the quality of life, patients undergo a rehabilitation course of physical therapy. Classes are conducted under the supervision of medical staff with clearly dosed physical activity.

Doing sports on your own is strictly contraindicated. Incorrect calculation of the load on the heart and lungs can lead to fatal consequences.

Preventive actions

Prevention of pulmonary fibrosis includes measures that reduce the risk of developing the disease.

In industries with an increased risk of exposure to chemical compounds on the body, safety, labor protection and rest rules must be strictly observed. People whose professional activities involve 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 ( preventive examination doctors).

If a person leads a healthy and active lifestyle, then the risk of disease is reduced many times over.

Pneumofibrosis is a severe lung disease with an unfavorable outcome. It is dangerous to human life and cannot be completely cured. If the pathology is not detected in a timely manner, the maximum life expectancy will not exceed 5 years. At extremely in serious condition The patient's maintenance therapy will delay death by 3-5 months.

Frequency pulmonary diseases V last years growing steadily due to high levels of pollution environment, the rapid development of various types of industry. Pneumofibrosis – dangerous pathology lungs, occurring after primary diseases, characterized by damage to lung tissue. Pneumofibrosis is dangerous due to serious complications that can lead to respiratory failure and death.

What is pneumofibrosis

The group of pneumosclerotic pathologies includes a number of diseases characterized by damage lung tissue varying degrees. In addition to pneumocirrhosis, such pathologies include pneumofibrosis (pleuropneumofibrosis), a disease characterized by the proliferation of connective tissue in the lungs, which occurs as a result of degenerative or inflammatory processes in the body.

As a rule, pneumofibrosis occurs as a result of previous illnesses (pneumonia, syphilis, tuberculosis) or as a result of chronic obstructive diseases or occupational pathologies. Pneumofibrosis leads to loss of elasticity of the lungs and impaired gas exchange. If left untreated, the pathology can develop into pneumocirrhosis and pulmonary failure..

Normally, lung tissue has high elasticity, so the body makes serious efforts to stretch the tissue, which leads to an increase in intrapulmonary pressure. During breathing, the alveoli open under the influence of pressure. With pleuropneumofibrosis, damage to a significant number of alveoli is observed, as a result of which the elasticity of the lungs decreases, which leads to disruption of the breathing process and a decrease in the body's oxygen supply.

The exit of accumulated secretions from the bronchi becomes difficult, which provokes the development pathogenic microflora. Due to inflammatory processes, pressure on blood vessels occurs, which leads to impaired lymph and blood flow. In places where fluids stagnate, connective tissue forms, which grows over time and replaces nearby alveoli, which, if left untreated over time, can lead to pulmonary insufficiency.

Types of pneumofibrosis

Based on the location of the connective tissue, basal and basal pneumofibrosis are distinguished. The first occurs in the upper zone of the lungs, the second - at the base of the organ. Hilar pulmonary fibrosis is easily confused with other lung pathologies because clinical picture in both cases is similar. The pathology can affect both lungs or one. Depending on the spread, there are two types of disease:

1. Local pneumofibrosis (focal) is characterized by the proliferation of connective tissue in a certain place (focus) of one lung, as a rule, it is asymptomatic and does not affect respiratory function.
2. Diffuse pneumofibrosis is accompanied by damage to the vessels, tissues and alveoli of both lungs; the pathology is characterized by significant disorders respiratory activity, changes in the structure of the lungs, their deformation, hypoxia of organs and systems. In the diffuse form, the formation of dense connective tissue occurs much faster than in the local form.

Depending on how soon the patient turns to a pulmonologist, two stages of the disease are distinguished: non-progressive, which is characterized by practically complete absence clinical manifestations, and progressive, characterized by rapid development and severe course. The progressive form of the disease can lead to abscesses and other dangerous complications.

Causes of pneumofibrosis

The impetus for the growth of connective tissue in most cases is the inflammatory process, resulting in the development of hypoxia, which provokes the activation of special cells - fibroblasts. The latter are produced in large quantities collagen, which is the precursor of future connective tissue. Causes of lung lesions that provoke the development of pleuropneumofibrosis:

• infections of various nature;
• systematic inhalation of toxic substances;
• sarcoidosis (formation of granulomas in the lungs);
• chest injury;
• frequent effects of ionizing radiation on chest;
• bad habits(especially smoking);
• beryllium disease is an occupational pathology that occurs due to contamination of the lungs with dust containing beryllium;
• hereditary factor;
• mycoses ( fungal diseases);
• interstitial edema;
• taking certain anticancer drugs.

Symptoms

Clinical manifestations of pneumofibrosis can be traced when the connective tissue of both lungs is damaged. The main symptom of the pathology is shortness of breath, which initial stages The disease bothers the patient during physical activity, and then appears at rest. Other signs of pulmonary fibrosis are as follows:

• bluish tint of the skin;
• cough that produces sputum and pus;
• chest pain;
• general malaise, loss of strength;
• changes in body temperature;
• weight loss;
• wheezing in the lungs when exhaling;
• in some cases, swelling of the jugular veins is observed.

Diagnostics

To establish accurate diagnosis The specialist needs to familiarize himself with the patient’s medical history and conduct a physical examination. Pneumofibrosis should not be confused with lung cancer - despite all the similarity of symptoms, the pathology does not apply to oncological diseases. In addition, it is necessary to differentiate the disease being sought from other pulmonary abnormalities.

The most informative method diagnostics is X-ray examination– it allows not only to identify the disease, but also to determine the primary causes that led to the proliferation of connective tissue, as well as to differentiate pulmonary fibrosis from oncology. Computed tomography and radiography are used as accompanying studies.

Treatment of pneumofibrosis

Therapy for pulmonary fibrosis consists primarily of eliminating the primary disease that initiated the proliferation of connective tissue. For example, antibacterial agents are actively used to treat pneumonia wide range actions. To enhance the effect, glucocorticoids and expectorants (Bromhexine) are prescribed along with antibiotics.

In case of heart failure, which developed against the background of pleuropneumofibrosis or was the root cause of the pathology, cardiac glycoside preparations (Strophanthin, Korglikon) are used. All medications (including folk remedies) should be used only as prescribed by a doctor and under his constant supervision to avoid the development of allergic reactions or others serious complications.

As a rule, in the treatment of pleuropneumofibrosis and other diseases without signs of pulmonary insufficiency, physiotherapy is prescribed - for example, iontophoresis and ultrasound with the use of drugs. Oxygen therapy has a beneficial effect, as it can saturate the lungs with the necessary oxygen. In addition, for successful treatment, the patient should attend physical therapy classes, which help improve blood circulation and muscle tone.

Vitamin therapy, diet and strengthening the immune system in general help the body fight illness and contribute to successful treatment pathology at any stage. Pneumofibrosis, like other pulmonary diseases, must be cured before full recovery to avoid relapses. In addition, a patient who has suffered pneumonia or pulmonary fibrosis must be registered at the clinic for one year after recovery to monitor and prevent complications.

Traditional methods

Recipes alternative medicine widely used in the treatment of pulmonary diseases. It should be noted that folk remedies are effective only in relieving some symptoms and alleviating the patient’s condition. Some popular recipes:

1. A crushed mixture consisting of 200 g of white mistletoe, 200 g of elecampane, 100 g of hawthorn and rose hips, 50 g of ephedra two-spikelet, is poured with a glass of water and simmered over low heat for 5 minutes, then the broth is infused for one hour. Take 100 ml of the product throughout the day.
2. Shredded birch leaves and thyme are mixed in equal proportions, poured with water, boiled for 5-7 minutes, then infused.
3. 1 tablespoon of crushed rose hips and elecampane roots is poured with water in a ratio of 1:3, boiled for 15 minutes, then cooled. The infusion should be taken daily, the course of treatment is 2 months.
4. 1 tablespoon of flax seed is poured into a glass of boiling water, the composition is infused for half an hour. Use the resulting decoction once a day before bedtime.
5. Beat the leaves of fresh cabbage or burdock so that the juice comes out. Place the plants on the chest, wrap them in cellophane and leave them overnight.

Among the diseases respiratory system special attention deserves pulmonary fibrosis. This is one of the most serious modern pulmonary diseases, which develops relatively quickly and can lead to serious consequences. Many reasons can cause its occurrence, so for effective fight with pneumofibrosis, it is necessary to find out what exactly gave rise to its development. Often it appears as part of a complication after some other pulmonary diseases, so they should not be started under any circumstances.

General characteristics - what is fibrosis

• bronchitis various types;
• pneumonia;
• fungal diseases;
• pulmonary thromboembolism;
• bronchial asthma;
• pleurisy;
• bronchial cancer or metastases spreading to the lungs from other organs.

Any of these diseases can provoke the development of fibrosis even after, at first glance, a cure has occurred.

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs is a condition in which the lung tissue is replaced by scar, connective tissue that does not conduct oxygen in the required volumes and prevents normal contractions of the lungs. This provokes severe violations respiratory function.

On its development path, this disease goes through several stages:

1. Pneumofibrotic condition - connective and pulmonary tissues alternate, the number of normal lung cells predominates.
2. Pneumosclerotic condition - the lung tissue becomes smaller than the connective tissue, its rough replacement occurs, the respiratory organs become significantly denser.
3. Cirrhosis - connective tissue completely destroys the lungs and bronchi.

Since the treatment of advanced pulmonary fibrosis includes surgery and removal of the affected organ or part of it, when the first symptoms of this problem appear, you should consult a pulmonologist. This disease is extremely dangerous and can become fatal if action is not taken promptly.

Classification of fibrosis

1. Root – connective tissue affects the root of the lung.
2. Basal - connective tissue develops in the central part of the lung.
3. Apical - connective tissue occurs at the top of the lung.

• focal pneumofibrosis;
• total pneumofibrosis;
• limited foci of connective tissue alternate with healthy fragments of the respiratory system;
• the lungs are completely affected.

Symptoms indicating lung disease

The fundamental symptom of almost any pathology developing in the lungs is cough. In cases where we are talking about a disease such as pulmonary fibrosis, the cough will be dry or with a minimum of sputum.

In addition, fibrosis is characterized by other characteristic features:

• manifestation severe shortness of breath(while the patient’s weight remains the same);
• pale or even bluish skin tone;
• thickening of the fingertips, distortion and convexity of the nail;
• increased heart rate;
• chest pain;
• swelling;
• swollen veins in the neck;
• weakness, lethargy.

All the usual signs of heart failure also become characteristic signs of the formation of fibrosis.

Video

Video - treatment of lungs with folk remedies

Causes of lung diseases

Focal fibrosis of the lungs, gradually developing into an even more serious pathology,

Develops as a result of exposure to the following factors:

• The patient suffered from untreated pneumonia or bronchitis (post-pneumonic fibrosis).
• A number of infectious diseases can also cause fibrosis - for example, tuberculosis (linear pulmonary fibrosis)
• The patient is constantly forced to inhale fine dust. This can happen either as a result of working in hazardous industries - for example, where silicates or fertilizers are processed, or in the case of living in a recently renovated room. Therefore, when analyzing the causes of pulmonary fibrosis, it is necessary to take into account even the degree of dilution of water-based paint on the walls of the patient’s house, which can begin to generate dust on an ongoing basis. There are no unimportant little things in this matter.

• The patient needs to regularly take medications of a certain category: to eliminate arrhythmic manifestations or a tumor.

• The patient had problems with the condition of his connective tissues - for example, he began to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
• The patient spends a long time in a room infected with fungus and mold. In this case, when inhaling the spores, he will begin to develop cystic fibrosis. This is one of the most dangerous types of fibrosis, which is highly likely to lead to death. Often, infection with mycoses and cystic fibrosis also occurs during repairs when removing, for example, moldy wallpaper.
• A cyst forms in the patient’s lungs and gradually begins to grow. This type of disease is cystic fibrosis.
• The patient is undergoing or has undergone chemotherapy, which provokes post-radiation pulmonary fibrosis.
• The cause as such is absent or cannot be identified. Is it primary or idiopathic fibrosis lungs.

The likelihood of a disease such as local pulmonary fibrosis must be taken very seriously. Immediately after diagnosing it and calculating the cause of the disease, you should no longer come into contact with the harmful provoking factor. Fibrosis can develop extremely quickly.

All factors that can cause fibrosis affect children much more than adults, and this must be taken into account. However, not all children have immediately noticeable symptoms: sometimes they appear only after several years, during the period hormonal maturation. The presence of children in hazardous areas should be approached with great caution.

Diagnostics

The diagnostic process, during which it can be detected diffuse fibrosis lungs,

As follows:

1. The patient consults a doctor, as a rule, with a persistent or worsening cough and shortness of breath.
2. The history includes questions about when the problem first appeared and how it developed over time.
3. The characteristics of the lifestyle are analyzed, the presence of a recent inflammatory disease, and work in hazardous work is revealed. Often, post-inflammatory fibrosis is also calculated.
4. The patient's lungs are auscultated and tapped. In addition, specific instrumental examinations are required.:
5. Spirographic studies are carried out to show the level of preservation of respiratory function.
6. X-ray examinations are done. Thanks to them, cystic fibrosis with characteristic compactions is easily calculated.
7. Tomographic studies of various types are prescribed - they allow you to determine in detail what changes have occurred in the lungs. At this stage, the relationship between cord tissue (darkening) and interstitial lung tissue is revealed.
8. A lung biopsy is performed - a small piece of the lung is removed for study. This is necessary to determine how far diffuse pulmonary fibrosis has penetrated into the tissue at the cellular level.

After full examination the doctor can determine the type of disease and decide on treatment tactics.

Specifics of treatment

Quite often, patients turn to a pulmonologist when ordinary fibrosis has already become pneumosclerosis, having significantly spread to the lung tissue. At the same time, this pathology practically does not imply a complete cure: even in the most successful treatment option, connective tissue still remains in the lungs, which can begin to grow again.

Fibrosis of the roots of the lungs is quite easily determined on a fluorogram. It, like other types of local lung diseases, does not require surgical intervention.

In this case, the treatment will look like this:

• elimination of all factors that negatively affect the condition of the lungs, including immediate cessation of repairs or work in an inappropriate specialty, cessation of smoking;
• oxygen inhalations using special devices.

Sometimes you still need to treat the disease conservative methods doesn't make sense.

In this case it is necessary:

• surgical intervention to remove the affected part of the lung - quite often this happens when cystic fibrosis has been diagnosed, and there is a possibility of further growth of the cyst;
• Lung transplantation in case of total damage and cirrhosis.

When it comes to a problem such as hilar pulmonary fibrosis or its basal and apical varieties, no action is often taken therapeutic actions. It is enough just to eliminate the harmful factors, and the development of the disease will stop on its own.

Possible consequences

• chronic problems with lack of oxygen (development);
• development ;
• chronic condition of pulmonary heart;
• the emergence of a predisposition to infectious diseases - pneumonia and tuberculosis.

If fibrosis is diagnosed, it is necessary to undergo a pulmonary examination from time to time and check whether the connective tissue has begun to grow again. Extraordinary examinations are necessary if there is a sharp deterioration in the usual condition, especially if it coincides with a change in lifestyle - for example, new job or moving to another apartment.

Prevention

Prevention to prevent the occurrence of most fibrosis includes:

1. Refusal of any smoking practices (cigarettes, hookah, pipes) - in all cases, microparticles enter the body that can negatively affect the condition of the lungs.
2. Compliance with all safety measures if for some reason it is impossible to leave hazardous production or limit contact with harmful factors.
3. Use of professional protective equipment respiratory organs. Many people believe that when working with construction dust or fungal-contaminated objects, a simple fabric respirator is sufficient. This is absolutely false - it does not retain even half of the harmful substances. You should purchase a multi-layer filter respirator.
4. All inflammatory diseases affecting the lungs should be treated immediately, at the very initial stage.
5. Drugs aimed at combating arrhythmia and tumors must be taken under the supervision of a pulmonologist. If necessary, treatment should be interrupted or another medicine should be used to replace the drug that provoked the development of fibrosis.
6. Treatment of cancerous tumors with chemotherapy should be carried out with the same precautions. It will most likely be impossible to interrupt it, but monitoring the condition of the lungs is a necessary measure.

The same measures should be followed as rehabilitation measures after oxygen therapy or surgery.

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs is pathological growth connective tissue under the influence of inflammation or degenerative process.
This condition leads to the threat of violation respiratory functions and deterioration of organ ventilation.

Find the answer

Pneumofibrosis - causes of development

The process of proliferation of connective tissue is long, the disease develops over many years.
Diseases of the respiratory system are caused by:

• Infectious and invasive lesions of the lungs, especially tuberculosis, syphilis, mycotic tissue infections;
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease;
• Allergic and fibrosing alveolitis.

The disease develops in people who are constantly exposed to risk factors:

• Work in hazardous industries (coal, gas, chemical industries, work in dusty conditions);
• Sternum injuries;
• Foreign body in the bronchi;
• Insufficient therapy aimed at eliminating infectious lung lesions;
• Hemodynamic disturbances in the pulmonary circulation;
• Hereditary predisposition and genetic diseases respiratory organs.

The formation of pneumofibrosis is promoted by atelectasis - adhesions lung tissue. They arise as a result of sluggish bronchopneumonia, when a violation of the excretory function is observed in the bronchi.

Loss of elasticity, deformation and atrophy of the muscle layer occurs due to damage to the bronchial wall. As a result, stagnation of infectious contents occurs.

Mass accumulations of pathogenic microorganisms lead to the development interstitial pneumonia with subsequent sclerotization of the lung tissue and a decrease in the air content in the cavity of the affected organ.

Clinical picture of pulmonary fibrosis

Early diagnosis difficult due to unclear and poorly expressed symptoms in the early stages of pulmonary fibrosis. Typically, the patient goes to the hospital with a clearly expressed and advanced form of the disease.
Right ventricular hypertrophy developing against the background of the disease is expressed by:

• In loss of consciousness;
• Swelling;
• Fainting.

If the disease is accompanied by pneumonia, then the patient’s condition is severe, with symptoms similar to the flu.

• Headaches;
• High temperature;
• Weakness;
• Aches in the muscles;
• Sore throat;
• Dry cough;
• Shortness of breath.

In advanced cases, the patient’s fingers take on a specific shape—the phalanges thicken, and the fingers resemble a club in shape.
Pneumofibrosis affects various departments lungs, so the clinical picture depends on the location of the lesion. For this reason, forms of the disease are distinguished - basal, hilar pneumofibrosis.

Focal, local and diffuse forms differ in the area of ​​lung tissue involved in the process.

Various forms of diseases

Basal pulmonary fibrosis is characterized by damage to the base of the lungs (basal sections). The diagnosis is made after an x-ray. Medications prescribed to stop the inflammatory process. In other cases, supportive manipulations are recommended: herbal treatment and breathing exercises.

Radical form - the disease affects the root of the lung; the impetus for its onset can be a history of bronchitis or pneumonia. Characteristic of primary tuberculosis, leading to lung deformation.

Focal pneumofibrosis - affects individual areas of tissue, leading to a decrease in its volume and compaction. Respiratory and ventilation functions are not impaired. Under a microscope, this is a reduction in the area of ​​the lung and compaction of its parenchyma.

Local form - with this form, the lung tissue loses its functions and is replaced by connective tissue in a single area of ​​the organ.
Diffuse pulmonary fibrosis is one of the severe forms a disease that affects the tissue of an entire organ, and sometimes both lungs.

The volume of the affected surface is greatly reduced due to compaction and deformation of tissues, and ventilation is impaired.

Linear form - appears as a consequence of complications after tuberculosis or pneumonia.
Interstitial pneumofibrosis - with this form the patient suffers from shortness of breath, the disease develops as a result of inflammatory phenomena in the pulmonary blood vessels.

Severe form - the disease progresses as a result of chronic inflammatory pulmonary diseases. Smoking is the cause of the development of the disease at a young age. Cigarette smoke causes stagnation of mucus in the bronchi.

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Different types of diagnostics

Radiography - the best way detection of the disease even with asymptomatic. These data obtained during the study show the severity of the lesion, its degree and nature.
For details pathological changes held:

• Computed tomography (CT)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),
• Bronchography.

Radiological signs of pneumofibrosis are varied, accompanying illnesses make their changes:

• Pulmonary emphysema,
• Bronchiectasis,
• Chronical bronchitis.

With these pathologies the following are observed:

• Increased looping and meshness of the pulmonary pattern,
• Infiltration in peribronchial tissue,
• Deformation of the walls of the bronchi.

Sometimes the lower parts of the lungs look like a porous sponge.

Bronchoscopy reveals bronchiectasis and traces of chronic bronchitis. To establish the activity and etiology of inflammation, it is analyzed cellular composition flushing the affected organ.

When examining vital capacity ( vital capacity lungs) and Tiffno index (bronchial patency) spirometry and peak flowmetry are used. A general blood test does not show significant abnormalities in pulmonary fibrosis.

Complex treatment of pathology

How to treat pulmonary fibrosis? It is impossible to completely get rid of the disease.
His treatment is aimed at:

• To stop the process,
• Prevention of asphyxia,
• Preservation normal condition healthy tissues.

Specific therapy is prescribed by a pulmonologist. At acute course diseases and the presence of inflammatory processes require hospital treatment.

The main direction of medical action is to eliminate the cause of the pathology.

For inflammation, the following are prescribed:

• Expectorants;
• Mucolytics;
• Antibiotics.

Episodes of heart failure require the use of:

• Potassium preparations;
• Cardiac glycosides.

To eliminate allergic reactions, glucocorticoids are needed.
In case of suppuration and destruction of lung tissue, it is required surgery for the purpose of resection of the affected area.
Physical methods of conservative treatment:

• Chest massage;
• Physiotherapy;
• Walks in the open air.

The latest innovation in the field of pulmonology is the use of stem cells for fibrotic diseases lungs. Using this method, gas exchange and the structure of the respiratory organs are improved.

In advanced stages, lung transplantation is indicated to save the patient's life.

• Calcium;
• Copper;
• Potassium salts;
• Vitamins A and B9.

Prognosis and prevention for the disease

Depends on the area of ​​the surface involved in the process and the rate of replacement of lung tissue with connective tissue. In the presence of secondary infections and tuberculosis processes, the likelihood of death increases sharply.
Preventative measures include:

• Treatment for everyone colds on time, using the correct methodology;
• Compliance with precautionary measures in hazardous industries;
• Hardening;
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: quitting smoking;
• Physical exercise.

Pneumofibrosis does not depend on gender, but often occurs in men over 50 years of age.

Progression of the disease leads to disability and death, which is why it is so important timely diagnosis and qualified treatment.

Physiotherapy of pneumofibrosis

During the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, the most important task is to eliminate all its causes. If pneumonia is detected, then you need to start urgently antibacterial therapy. Various medications are often prescribed along with physical therapy. physical therapy. Pneumofibrosis or pneumonia should be treated until complete clinical and radiological recovery. And after complete recovery, people must remain registered with a specialist for a whole year.

But in addition to drug treatment, patients with this disease are prescribed physical therapy. Iontophoresis and ultrasound with medicinal ingredients can be used as physiotherapy. This treatment gives excellent results.

And sometimes, oxygen therapy is prescribed, in which oxygen is supplied to the lungs through a machine. As much oxygen is supplied as is contained in the surrounding space.

Breathing exercises

Excellent helpers for pulmonary fibrosis are breathing exercises that help improve the functioning of the respiratory system, strengthen the entire body due to the supply of oxygen to collapsed areas of the lungs.

There are many good things to do to strengthen the respiratory system. methodical exercises, for example, the methods of Buteyko, Strelnikova. But you don’t need to stick to only these methods; you can do easier breathing exercises, for example, inflating balloons. And for greater effect from such exercises, it is better to carry them out in the fresh air or in a well-ventilated area.

Here are some great exercises:

• Take a deep breath, hold your breath for a while and slowly exhale;
• While inhaling, slowly raise your arms up, exhale sharply and slowly lower your arms with the sound “ha”;
• Inflate several times a day air balloons about 1 -2 minutes;
• A good exercise is to blow through a tube lowered into water for about 2-3 minutes;
• Standing, feet shoulder-width apart, slowly lean forward, at the same time spread your arms to the sides, while bending, inhale with your stomach pulled in;
• The next exercise should be performed lying on your back (can be on the floor), exhale through your mouth, slightly pressing your hands on the diaphragm.

In combination with those described breathing exercises, you can do other gymnastics that promote better ventilation of the lungs, for example, if pulmonary fibrosis is associated with bronchitis or pneumonia.

But remember one rule - you can’t do too difficult gymnastics when acute form illness, first wait for the body to recover a little, and then, if it improves, start doing gymnastics.

Treatment with folk remedies

With pulmonary fibrosis, wonderful people can come to the rescue folk recipes, time-tested, which have been used for a long time by our grandmothers and great-grandmothers. Folk remedies are in no way inferior to medicines, but their composition is considered more useful.

Let's talk about some medicines:

1. Grind the oman roots and rose hips in separate cups. Take 1 tbsp. Take a spoonful of these plants and pour them into a metal container. Pour 600 ml of water. Place on low heat, and after boiling, cook for another 15 minutes. We filter the finished broth and pour it into a thermos, put it in a dark place to infuse for several hours. Then we drink the decoction, like tea, 150 ml 2-3 times a day, for 2 months (just don’t skip using it!). In case of low acidity, it is recommended to drink this medicine 15 minutes before meals, and in case of high acidity - half an hour after meals. You can add a little honey to the broth and drink it chilled. This decoction increases energy levels, so it’s good to drink it before exercise. At the same time, oman and rose hips perfectly regenerate lung tissue, cleanse the lungs of phlegm, and prevent the occurrence of inflammatory processes and infections in the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.
2. For the next recipe you will need 2 tbsp. spoons of anise seeds. Pour them into a metal bowl, add 250 ml of water, and place on low heat. From the moment it boils, remove from the stove. Take the cooled broth 0.5 cups 2 times a day. You can also add anise seeds to milk along with cayenne pepper, and to sweeten the taste, you can add a little honey. Drink in small sips at night. You can make a liqueur with anise seeds: take 50 grams of seeds, pour them with 500 ml of strong white wine or low-quality cognac. Stir everything well and place in a dark place to infuse for 2 weeks. Then we drink 100 grams after meals.
3. Excellent therapeutic effect rosemary has anti-pulmonary fibrosis properties, essential oils based on it. This plant and its oils are good at cleansing the lungs of toxins and excess phlegm. Rosemary based medicine is strong antioxidant, which prevents the development of lung cancer, because when last stage pneumofibrosis can form malignant tumor. Rosemary promotes good air circulation in the lungs and relaxes everything bronchial tract, which improves the condition of the respiratory system. To prepare such a wonderful medicine you need: cut the rosemary into small pieces, pour it with water and honey 1:1. Put it all in the oven and simmer for about 120 minutes. Cool and refrigerate. Use this composition 1 tbsp. Spoon morning and evening. You can make a liqueur from rosemary, which has an amazing effect in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis: take 50 grams of finely chopped plant, fill it with 500 ml of red wine, add 3 - 4 tbsp. spoons of sugar, put on low heat, after boiling, immediately remove from heat. Place the composition in a dark place for 48 hours. Store the strained drink in the refrigerator. Use 1 tbsp. Spoon, 60 minutes after eating.

After one course of treatment with some folk remedy, your breathing will improve, and you can easily do various breathing exercises.

However, before using any folk remedy, it is advisable to consult with your doctor to avoid irreparable complications.

Consequences and complications

Pneumofibrosis of the lungs leaves behind irreversible changes in the tissues of the lungs.

For this reason advanced stage This disease cannot be completely cured; further development of the process can be stopped by adhering to preventive measures, which include:

• To give up smoking;
• When working with toxic substances, you should wear a respirator.

By characteristic features Pneumofibrosis is divided into progressive and non-progressive. The most dangerous stage of pulmonary fibrosis is the progressive stage; there can be dangerous complications - abscesses.

All exacerbations can cause discomfort to a person throughout his life. The non-progressive stage is less dangerous and develops almost without any clinical indicators. And if the patient leads healthy image life, then the disease will not give painful shocks and complications.

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

Yuri, Lugansk

Hello! Emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic bronchitis with an asthmatic component (or obstructive chronic bronchitis), and if we speak in modern “medical” language - chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - this is pathological condition lung tissue when it accumulates more air than it should be. With emphysema, bronchial resistance increases during exhalation. Emphysema, chronic obstructive bronchitis, as a rule, is accompanied by pneumosclerosis.

• Mix Viburnum decoction with honey (if you are not allergic to honey!) to thin mucus and soften 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.
• Garden turnip decoction. Chop the root vegetable 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 drug) 1 capsule or tablet (0.2 g) in the morning, on an empty stomach, with 2-3 sips of warm milk or grape juice. Course 20 days. The break is 1 month and the course again is 20 days. So – six months.
• . Pour 1 cup of washed oats into 1 liter of distilled water at room temperature; leave for 10 hours. Place on low heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat, wrap and let sit 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. Course – 1.5 months. Break 1 month and repeat the course - 1.5 months. So for 1.5 years.
• To reduce the viscosity of mucus good remedy is a mixture of Horseradish and lemon juice. Grate horseradish and take 100-150 g into a bottle. Add the juice of 2 lemons to it - you get a thick sauce. Leave for 1 day. Take 1 teaspoon in the morning and afternoon daily. Should not be taken with water or tea. In the first days of taking the medicine, it will cause lacrimation, but in subsequent days you will “cry” less and less. According to healers, “The more tears, the less mucus remains 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 purifier, expectorant, and phlegm thinner. For pneumosclerosis, emphysema, bronchial asthma, bronchiectasis, and obstructive bronchitis, take 1 dessert spoon of the decoction every two to three hours. Preparation Boil 1 tablespoon of crushed Iris roots in 300 ml of water for 7-10 minutes. Leave for 1 hour. Strain. Add honey to taste.
• Common thyme. Used as an expectorant and disinfectant for chronic (and obstructive) bronchitis, pneumosclerosis, bronchiectasis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia. It helps relieve cough with whooping cough and tracheitis. Pour 2 tablespoons of the herb 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.
• Drink Oregano herb tea every day for 3 months. Course 3 months; break 1 month and again course 3 months.
• Coltsfoot. An infusion of leaves is used for pneumosclerosis, bronchial asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and 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, alternating courses of drug treatment (2-3 drugs each), so that during breaks from taking some drugs, you can start treatment with others. You just need to show patience and perseverance, not giving up treatment halfway.

And my other advice to you... Do not take this as an advertisement under any circumstances. In Moscow there is Dr. Buteyko Center. This wonderful specialist specializes in lung diseases. I highly recommend calling there and talking to the Center’s doctor. 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 happen that this Center or its branches will help you recover.

Health to you, health!