Expert Care for Interstitial Lung Disease, Shortness of Breath and Chronic Cough
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) refers to a group of conditions that can cause inflammation and scarring in the lungs, making it harder to breathe. If you're experiencing unexplained shortness of breath, a persistent dry cough or increasing difficulty with everyday activities, University Hospitals is here to help.
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Quick Facts
- Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a group of lung conditions that cause scarring and inflammation in the lungs. Over time, ILD scarring can lead to lung stiffness and difficulty breathing.
- Causes of ILD include autoimmune diseases, environmental or occupational exposures, certain medications and other underlying conditions.
- Most forms of ILD cannot be cured, but early diagnosis and specialized treatment can often help slow disease progression, manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
- At University Hospitals, pulmonologists, radiologists, rheumatologists, pathologists and thoracic surgeons review complex ILD cases together, ensuring every patient benefits from a comprehensive evaluation.
- Treatment plans may include medications, anti-inflammatory therapies, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, lifestyle modifications and lung transplant evaluation when appropriate.
Understanding Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
ILD is a group of lung conditions that can cause inflammation and scarring in the lungs. Over time, this scarring can make the lungs stiffer, making it more difficult to breathe and get enough oxygen.
While most forms of ILD cannot be cured, early diagnosis and specialized treatment can make a meaningful difference. Our experts work closely with each patient to identify the cause of symptoms, slow disease progression, manage breathing problems and help maintain quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Interstitial Lung Disease
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When commercial airway stents failed to manage Sam’s idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and led to complications, the pulmonary team at University Hospitals created a customized stent that relieved his symptoms and led to an improved quality of life.
Read about Sam’s patient experienceYou should see a specialist if you've experienced ongoing breathing problems or noticed other changes in your health. Common symptoms of ILD include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity
- A persistent dry cough
- Fatigue or low energy
- Chest discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
These symptoms can be caused by many different conditions, but they should not be ignored, especially if they worsen over time. An early evaluation can help identify the cause and connect you with the right treatment options.
When Should You See an ILD Specialist?
Many symptoms of ILD can develop gradually and may be mistaken for aging, being out of shape or other common health conditions. If your symptoms are persistent, worsening or accompanied by risk factors for lung disease, an evaluation by an ILD specialist can help identify the cause and determine the best next steps.
You may benefit from seeing an ILD specialist if you have:
- Shortness of breath that is getting worse.
- A dry cough lasting several weeks or months.
- Lung scarring found on an imaging test.
- An autoimmune disease and new breathing symptoms.
- A family history of pulmonary fibrosis or ILD.
- Past exposure to asbestos, silica, coal dust or other occupational hazards.
How Is Interstitial Lung Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) can take time because many lung conditions share similar symptoms. The first step is understanding what's causing your breathing problems and whether lung inflammation or scarring is present. At University Hospitals, our specialists use advanced testing and a team-based approach to provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Your evaluation may include:
- A review of your medical history and symptoms, including any autoimmune conditions, family history of lung disease or exposure to environmental and occupational hazards.
- Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to measure how well your lungs are working.
- High-resolution CT scans to look for inflammation, scarring and other changes within the lungs.
- Blood tests to identify underlying autoimmune or connective tissue diseases.
- Bronchoscopy or lung biopsy, when additional information is needed to confirm a diagnosis.
A Team-Based Approach to Diagnosis
ILD can be complex. At University Hospitals, pulmonologists, radiologists, rheumatologists, pathologists and other specialists work together to review test results and determine the most accurate diagnosis. This collaborative approach helps ensure that treatment recommendations are tailored to your specific condition.
How Is Interstitial Lung Disease Treated?
Treatment for ILD is personalized based on the type of disease, its severity and your overall health. While many forms of ILD cannot be cured, treatment can help slow disease progression, manage symptoms and support your quality of life.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Medications that help slow lung scarring.
- Anti-inflammatory therapies.
- Oxygen therapy.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation.
- Vaccinations and infection prevention strategies.
- Lifestyle modifications and supportive care.
- Lung transplant evaluation when appropriate.
What Are the Goals of Treatment?
With the right care plan, treatment can help:
- Slow disease progression.
- Preserve lung function.
- Improve breathing and daily activities.
- Maintain independence and activity levels.
- Reduce complications.
- Improve overall quality of life.
Why Choose UH for ILD Care?
Expert Diagnosis for Complex Lung Conditions
ILD can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms often resemble other lung diseases. Our specialists work together to identify the cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Multidisciplinary Team of Specialists
Pulmonologists, radiologists, rheumatologists, pathologists and thoracic surgeons review complex cases together, ensuring every patient benefits from a comprehensive evaluation.
Advanced Testing and Treatment Options
We use specialized imaging, pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy and advanced biopsy techniques to help provide an accurate diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Ongoing Support
Our pulmonary rehabilitation programs can help improve endurance, breathing efficiency and quality of life while providing education and support for living with chronic lung disease.
Lung Transplant Evaluation and Care
For patients with advanced disease, University Hospitals offers comprehensive lung transplant evaluation and long-term care through our experienced transplant team.
Recognized for Excellence in ILD Care
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center is a member of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Care Center Network, reflecting our commitment to high-quality, specialized care for patients with interstitial lung disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is interstitial lung disease?
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Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a group of lung conditions that cause inflammation and scarring in the lungs. Over time, this scarring can make it harder to breathe and reduce the amount of oxygen your lungs can deliver to your body.
- Is ILD the same as pulmonary fibrosis?
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No. Pulmonary fibrosis is a type of interstitial lung disease that involves scarring of the lungs. ILD is a broader term that includes many different conditions, some of which may lead to pulmonary fibrosis.
- What causes interstitial lung disease?
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ILD can be caused by autoimmune diseases, environmental or occupational exposures, certain medications and other underlying conditions. In some cases, the cause is unknown.
- Can ILD be cured?
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Most forms of ILD cannot be cured, but treatment can often help slow disease progression, manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and specialized care are important for achieving the best possible outcomes.
- Is ILD hereditary?
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Some forms of ILD can run in families, but many cases are not inherited. Your care team will review your family history and other risk factors to help determine whether genetics may play a role in your condition.
- Will I eventually need oxygen?
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Not everyone with ILD requires oxygen therapy. The need for oxygen depends on the type of ILD, how advanced it is and how well your lungs are functioning over time.
- How quickly does ILD progress?
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ILD affects each person differently. Some forms progress slowly over many years, while others may worsen more quickly. Regular follow-up visits and testing can help your care team monitor changes and adjust treatment as needed.
- When is lung transplantation considered?
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A lung transplant may be considered for people with advanced ILD when symptoms continue to worsen despite treatment. If appropriate, your care team can discuss whether a transplant evaluation may be an option.
Research & Clinical Trials
Learn about novel approaches to ILD treatment being developed through our research and clinical trials program.