Pulmonary Fibrosis, also known as Hamman-Rich syndrome, is a medical condition that is characterized by the inflammation and scarring of the lung tissues. This condition often results from inhaling dust contaminated with animal products or bacteria, environmental agents such as silica, lead, arsenic and cadmium, organic compounds or occupational chemicals. Moreover, exposure to harmful gases and free radicals may also give rise to pulmonary fibrosis.
Other factors that can cause this disease include radiation therapy of lungs, autoimmune diseases, infections such as tuberculosis and pneumonia, inflammatory processes and certain medications. The typical symptoms are unexplained dry cough, shortness of breath, carckling sounds in the chest, fatigue, chest pain and diminished exercise tolerance. Pulmonary Fibrosis is diagnosed with chest X-ray, CT scan and surgical biopsy.
The treatment options are very limited as the scarring is irreversible once it has developed. Corticosteroids might be helpful in decreasing the processes that lead to fibrosis. Immune suppressing medications and anti-inflammatory drugs are also effective in reducing the symptoms. In severe cases, lung transplantation is the only way to cure the condition.
Pharma Nord Bio Pycnogenol Antioxidant is a popular brand on the market that is derived from maritime pine extract, which contains over 40 bioflavonoids. They protect the cells from damage by unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals. Pycnogenol enhances the health of blood vessels and reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Four tablets per day have been shown to give a therapeutic effect in reducing the chest pain associated with pulmonary fibrosis. There are no known contra-indications or side effects to this supplement.
