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What Are The Effects Of Drinking On Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis?
Question: My husband has ipf , and is a daily drinker (sometimes 3-4 drinks or more daily) It seems to me that his lack of breath is much worse after he consumes that much alcohol. However, he can also get up in the a.m. and be just as "winded" after taking the stairs or a short morning walk. He is denying that alcohol has anything to do with it, and one doctor agreed with him citing "no evidence that alcohol affects the condition". What is your opinion?
Brief Answer:
No evidence from studies but better to avoid
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing to us.
Yes, that doctor was right that,"There is no evidence that alcohol affects the condition".
However alcohol indirectly can affect IPF.
Alcoho overall effects digetive system and can cause esophageal reflux which can cause damage to lungs.
Alcohol reduces immunity as well as sometime during intoxication(Excessive intake) aspiration occurs , both these situation can cause pneumonia.
Alcohol affects liver function and that's why detoxification process.So harmful chemical increases in the body and can damages lung.
So by this manner you can explain your husband that if he stops taking alcohol, his condition will not worsen more.
Hope I have answered your query.
regards,
Dr.Chintan Solanki
No evidence from studies but better to avoid
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing to us.
Yes, that doctor was right that,"There is no evidence that alcohol affects the condition".
However alcohol indirectly can affect IPF.
Alcoho overall effects digetive system and can cause esophageal reflux which can cause damage to lungs.
Alcohol reduces immunity as well as sometime during intoxication(Excessive intake) aspiration occurs , both these situation can cause pneumonia.
Alcohol affects liver function and that's why detoxification process.So harmful chemical increases in the body and can damages lung.
So by this manner you can explain your husband that if he stops taking alcohol, his condition will not worsen more.
Hope I have answered your query.
regards,
Dr.Chintan Solanki
Note: In case of any other concern or query related to prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, or the recovery of persons with the any type of addiction or substance use, follow up with our Addiction Medicine Specialist. Click here to book a consultation now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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