What Is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)? Know All About The Health Issue That Claimed Life of Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain

Renowned Indian Tabla musician and composer Zakir Hussain passed away on December 15, 2024, at the age of 73. He was among the finest tabla players globally and died of a disease known as Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). In a statement released by Zakir Hussain’s family, they said: “The Indian classical music icon died from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease, at a hospital in San Francisco”. Read here to learn more about this disease:

What is IPF?

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, or IPF, is a chronic condition that can make breathing a bit more challenging over time. It causes the lungs to develop scars, which makes the tissue around the air sacs thicker and stiffer. As a result, this leads to lasting changes in the lungs, known as fibrosis, which can make it harder to take deep breaths.

What are the symptoms?

The most common signs that someone might experience with this disease are shortness of breath and a frequent cough. Other things to look out for include clubbing of the fingers, a crackling sound in the lungs when taking a breath, and unusual results from pulmonary function tests.

What are the causes?

While the exact cause of this disease isn’t fully understood yet, we do know that smoking can increase the risk of IPF. Other factors that might make someone more likely to develop it include having a family history, breathing in dust, experiencing viral infections, and being around harmful smells.

Who does it affect the most?

Typically, the chance of developing IPF goes up as we get older, which is why those in their 60s and 70s are more commonly affected. It’s quite uncommon for anyone under 50 to experience this condition.

How it can be treated?

While there’s currently no cure for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), there are treatments available that can make a big difference in managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. Medications like Nintedanib and Pirfenidone can help protect your lungs and reduce flare-ups.

In addition to medication, using oxygen therapy can really help if you’re experiencing shortness of breath. Also, staying active is very beneficial. Remember, self-care plays a key role, too. So make sure to avoid smoking, enjoy a healthy diet, and incorporate regular exercise into your routine.