A recent study found that around half of the idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients surveyed had not been fully informed about their treatment by their health care team, yet 93 percent of respondents said they wanted to learn about treatments and therapies directly from their doctor rather than other sources.

Understanding how medications work and what the treatment options are for IPF gives those living with the disease some autonomy over their health, arming them with information to make informed decisions about their future treatment. But how can IPF patients get more from their doctors’ appointments?

MORE: Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation releases online educational materials

With help from fightipf.co.uk, we’ve come up with a list of tips to help you learn more about your treatment, including what questions you should be asking your doctor.

Find out Your Options
Ask your doctor to fully explain the various treatment options available to you. It will help if you do some homework beforehand and investigate the different therapies and medications available so you can determine with the help of your doctor, which one is right for you.

Take Someone for Support
Take a family member or trusted friend with you to your doctors’ appointments. You will be able to discuss the pros and cons of various therapies with them and they will be able to help you recall all the information the doctor shared about your options.

MORE: When to consider professional help while dealing with PF

Share Your Goals
Explain to your doctor what your short- and long-term goals are so that they can determine the best strategy for your treatment and help you achieve your goals.

Bear in mind that as your condition progresses, your goals may change or you may have to lessen your expectations.

Questions to Ask
It’s important to understand all the medications you’re taking and what they do. If you have symptoms that you feel are not being addressed then you should enquire about treating those, too.

Here are some questions you may want to consider asking your doctor:

• What medications and therapies am I currently taking?
• What do these medications do?
• What are the possible side effects of these medications?
• Are there any other therapies or treatments I might benefit from?
• What things can I do to help me achieve my goals?
• What can I do to limit the impact of IPF on my life?

MORE: How to help others deal with your disease

Lung Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.