Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP): Treatments
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis, or HP, is a disease in which the lungs become inflamed from breathing in foreign substances, such as molds, dusts, and chemicals.
Part of: Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP)
Treatments for Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP)
The best way to treat hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is to avoid the antigen that caused it. (An antigen is a substance that your body reacts against, such as molds, dusts, and chemicals.)
In acute (short-term) HP, symptoms usually go away once you’re no longer in contact with the antigen. In chronic (ongoing) HP, you may need medicines to relieve your symptoms.
People who have chronic HP may develop pulmonary fibrosis. This is a condition in which tissue deep in your lungs becomes scarred over time. People who have this condition may need further treatment, such as oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation (rehab).
Avoiding Antigens
Once the antigen that caused the HP and its source are found, you can take steps to avoid it. If HP is caught early, avoiding the antigen may be the only treatment you need.
Avoiding an antigen may be easier at home than at work. For example, if your pet… Read more about Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP): Treatments