Restrictive Lung Diseases

Restrictive lung diseases are a group of lung conditions that cause a decrease in the overall capacity of a person's lungs to take in air. This can lead to shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, even during simple activities like walking or climbing stairs. These conditions are typically caused by scarring or thickening of the lungs, however they can also be caused by conditions that affect the chest wall, such as a muscle disorder. Treatments to manage restrictive lung diseases may include medication, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and in some cases, surgery. Life-long management is important to help improve symptoms and quality of life.