Naturopath Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis ( IPF )

What is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive lung disease characterized by the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) in the lungs. This scarring leads to a decline in lung function, making it harder to breathe, leading to shortness of breath and cough. 

The exact cause of IPF is unknown,

hence the name “idiopathic,” but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. 

There is currently no cure for IPF, and treatment is aimed at managing symptoms and slowing down the progression of the disease. Recent studies using herbal medicine have been the basis for herbal protocols that Leah has had great success with multiple patients.

For more information about what Idiopathic Pulmonary fibrosis is https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2658683/ 

Meet Leah Nutritionist and Naturopath Erina Central Coast

 Leah, is a highly skilled and dedicated nutritionist and naturopath based in Erina, on the beautiful New South Wales central coast.

Leah has a passion for helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being through personalized nutrition and lifestyle recommendations.

With a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of natural medicine, she provides expert advice on how to achieve balance and vitality in all aspects of life.

Whether it’s managing a specific health condition such as Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis or seeking to improve overall health, Leah works closely with her clients to create individualized plans that meet their unique needs and goals.

Her compassionate and supportive approach helps to create a safe and welcoming space for her clients to explore and achieve their health goals.

Leah is an exceptional practitioner who truly cares about the well-being of her clients.

Why would a naturopath start researching IPF ?

I met a large range of people with many different conditions that I enjoy researching and developing plans for. 

As a naturopath idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis provided both a lot of research and some exciting results using herbal medicine.

One day recently I met a lovely older man who has become one of my favourite patients. 

He originally was referred to me by a GP for some herbal tea to help him sleep. 

After our first consultation, I discovered a lot more about this man. One of which was that as a solider in Vietnam, he had been covered with chemicals and he believed this was the original source of his Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis or IPF. I should add here that he dislikes strongly the word Idiopathic as he believes they know what the cause is but don’t wish to admit responsibility.

This set me on a little rabbit hole of research into the condition and looking for any herbal treatments or supplements that could help reduce the progression of IPF and help him have a better quality of life. 

Let me take you on a little journey.

Symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lung disease that causes progressive scarring of the lung tissue, making it difficult to breathe. The symptoms of IPF can include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• A persistent dry cough
• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Rapid breathing or heart rate
• Weakness and weight loss
• Clubbing (rounding) of the fingers or toes
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty sleeping

These symptoms usually develop gradually over time and can become increasingly severe as the disease progresses. If you are experiencing symptoms of IPF, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and a treatment plan.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis causes?

The exact cause of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is unknown, hence the term “idiopathic.” IPF is a type of interstitial lung disease, which refers to a group of conditions that cause inflammation and scarring in the tissue around the air sacs of the lungs.

However, several factors are believed to play a role in the development of IPF, including:

• Genetics: IPF can run in families, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role in its development.

• Environmental exposures: Exposure to certain substances, such as dusts and chemicals, can cause lung damage and increase the risk of IPF.

• Age: IPF is more common in people over the age of 50.

• Smoking: Smoking is a risk factor for IPF, as it causes damage to the lungs and can increase the risk of interstitial lung disease.

• Previous lung injury: People who have a history of lung injury, such as pneumonia or a lung infection, may have an increased risk of developing IPF.

Despite these risk factors, the exact cause of IPF is not yet known, and more research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms of this disease.

Specialist Naturopath

Seeing a specialist naturopathic like Leah may be beneficial for individuals with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) as she can offer complementary and alternative therapies aimed at improving your symptoms and overall health. Some of the interventions Leah might suggest include:

• Herbal medicine:

Using herbs to support respiratory health, reduce inflammation and improve immune function.

• Nutrition therapy:

Recommendations on a balanced diet, as well as specific nutrients and supplements to support lung health.

• Lifestyle modifications:

Suggestions on lifestyle changes such as exercise, stress management and sleep, which can help improve overall health and respiratory function.

Scientific studies that use herbs and supplements for IPF.

Research studies that found only herbal medicines had really made a major impact in reducing IPF symptoms and slowing progression were very exciting to find.

Most studies seem to have difficulty finding enough people to participate in the study. 

A recent study was discontinued in Hong Kong.

The most exciting scientific study I found was on rodents, not humans and was conducted when the world was in lockdown.  This gave me the confidence to be able to really support my patients and help reduce the impact on their lives by IPF. 

I am interested in maybe conducting a scientific trial using herbal medications if I can get enough interest and participants. Please email me directly if you would be interesting in registering for any future trials. 

leah@naturallywith.com  

Mr L.O introduction case presentation discussion

This is being repeated with permission. 

Mr L.O has been suffering from IPF for many years. He has been prescribed medications by a lung specialist but warned that the medications only slow the progression of the disease.

Mr L.O struggled to breath an do basic everyday things. He could only manage 3 steps at a time and had a walking frame and walking stick to assist him. 

 Mr L.O also struggled to cough and couldn’t cough up phlegm. 

Within 1 month of starting liquid herbs and a magnesium supplement, Mr L.O was sleeping through the night, walking up 19 stairs without stopping, doing regular exercise and no longer using his walking frame or walking stick. 

He also noted that he can freely cough and feels that his lungs feel less constricted. 

It is early days still and I don’t want to get too excited with a miracle cure for pulmonary fibrosis but seeing the bounce in Mr LO’s step was very exciting.

It makes me thing… “has anyone been cured of pulmonary fibrosis ?” ” Can I help cure someone of such a terrible disease….?”

Do you see patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)?

Yes.

As a naturopath, I regularly see patients with IPF and their associated conditions.

I see patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis at my clinic at Erina on the NSW Central Coast.

I can also see patients worldwide via Zoom

Find out more about me.

Treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is with a combination of supplements, amino acids, liquid herbs and sometimes lifestyle changes. European and Chinese herbal medicine for pulmonary fibrosis

How do you reverse idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis?

Unfortunately, reversing idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is currently not possible.

While there are treatments available that can slow the progression of IPF and improve quality of life, there is no known cure for the disease.

Research into potential treatments and a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of IPF continues to be an active area of study, and it is hoped that future developments will eventually lead to a way to reverse the damage caused by this debilitating condition

I am really hoping that the herbal mixtures that we are trialling will reverse or at least slow down the progression of IPF.  So far the results are really encouraging.

It is important to speak to Leah as supplements can interact with medications or make some conditions worse.

Please do not self-medicate.