Interstitial Lung Diseases

A group of disorders that cause progressive scarring of lung tissue. Interstitial lung disease may be caused by long-term exposure to hazardous materials, such as asbestos or coal dust, or it can be caused by an auto-immune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis. Once lung scarring occurs, it's generally irreversible. Symptoms include a dry cough. Shortness of breath can occur either at rest or after exertion. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but often includes steroids.