Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic disease that causes scarring and thickening of lung tissue. Scar tissue replaces healthy lung tissue, which causes your lungs to swell and stiffen. Breathing becomes more difficult as the disease gets worse. Pulmonary fibrosis may be caused by factors such as exposure to airborne toxins, lung disease and radiation treatments. Acupuncture may help alleviate symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is part of complementary and alternative medicine. Acupuncture treatments involve the stimulation of specific points on the body using fine needles, which can help relieve pain and also promote general health, according to MedlinePlus. Consult with your health care provider before you seek complementary and alternative treatments for pulmonary fibrosis.
Effects
Acupunture can cause several side effects, especially when it is not delivered properly. Improper needle insertion can cause pain and puncture of your body organs. If the needles used during acupuncture treatments are contaminated, then can cause an infection. To reduce side effects, seek acupuncture treatments from qualified practitioners. Inform the acupuncturist of all medical conditions you have because certain diseases can increase the risk for adverse side effects.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis include chest pain, dry cough, fatigue, shortness of breath when performing activities, unexplained weight loss and aching muscles and joints, according to PubMed Health. Complications of pulmonary fibrosis include medical conditions such as respiratory failure, high blood pressure in your lungs, chronic low blood oxygen levels, pneumothorax and lung cancer.
Conventional Treatment
Pulmonary fibrosis usually has no cure, and no conventional treatments have been effective in slowing the progression of the disease. Treatments usually are aimed at improving symptoms and quality of life. Corticosteroids normally are prescribed to reduce inflammation in the lungs. Supplemental oxygen usually is prescribed if you have low blood oxygen levels. Lung transplantation may be performed if you have severe pulmonary fibrosis.
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