Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive chronic lung condition which affects people both emotionally and physically. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) held a patient-focus drug development initiative where people living with IPF could talk freely about the effect the disease has on their everyday lives.

Here’s what they said:

Work and Home Life
Many IPF patients talked about how their decreased physical function affected their everyday life. Many were unable to do the simplest of chores without needing to rest afterwards. Cleaning the house, walking up stairs, showering and even getting dressed presented problems and lead to depression for some patients.

Work and Careers
Patients are often forced to take early retirement due to the shortness of breath and fatigue associated with IPF, which can impact them both emotionally and financially.

MORE: 6 Famous People Who Lost Their Battle With Pulmonary Fibrosis.