Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): A Canadian Guide
Last reviewed 2026-10-14
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic lung disease where lung tissue becomes scarred for no known cause, making it harder to breathe. It mostly affects adults over 60.
Pulmonary fibrosis symptoms
- Shortness of breath that slowly worsens, especially with activity
- Dry, persistent cough
- Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
- Rounded, widened fingertips (clubbing)
- Crackling sounds in the lungs heard by a doctor
Diagnosis
- High-resolution CT scan
- Breathing (pulmonary function) tests
- Blood tests to rule out other causes
- Sometimes a lung biopsy, reviewed by a specialist team
Pulmonary fibrosis treatment
- Antifibrotic medicines nintedanib (Ofev) and pirfenidone (Esbriet and generics) can slow decline.
- Provincial plans often cover them with special authorization.
- Oxygen therapy when blood oxygen is low
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Vaccines (flu, COVID, RSV, pneumococcal)
- Lung transplant assessment for some people
Outlook
IPF progresses at different rates. Early diagnosis and treatment, staying active and support from a respiratory team can help quality of life.
Frequently asked questions
Is IPF the same as pulmonary fibrosis?
IPF is the most common form of pulmonary fibrosis, where no cause is found.
Is IPF treatment covered in Canada?
Antifibrotics are often covered by provincial plans through special authorization.
Official sources
This guide is general information, not medical or financial advice. Program rules and amounts change — confirm with the official source or your pharmacist.