Interstitial Lung Disease

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an umbrella term used for a large group of diseases that cause scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs. The scarring causes stiffness in the lungs which makes it difficult to breathe and get oxygen to the bloodstream. Lung damage from ILDs is often irreversible and gets worse over time.

What is the main cause of interstitial lung disease?

Interstitial lung disease is the name for a group of 100 lung disorders that inflame or scar the lungs. The cause is not known. Major contributing factors are smoking and inhaling environmental or occupational pollutants.