WKBT
February 6, 2021 7:15 AM
Paul F. Dellaripa, M.D., Harvard Health Blog
Posted:
Updated:
Dreamstime/TNS
For autoimmune lung disease, the most important first step is to eliminate any known risks that may cause or exacerbate lung disease.
A man who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) five years ago sees his rheumatologist for a follow-up visit. Fortunately, his arthritis is well controlled through medication. He can walk and do all his daily activities without pain.
But over the past six months, he’s been feeling short of breath when climbing stairs. He has an annoying dry cough too. COVID-19? That’s ruled out quickly. But a CT scan of his chest reveals early fibrosis (scarring) of the lungs, most likely related to rheumatoid arthritis.