Stage 3: Info for Caregivers

Reviewed by Jeffrey James Swigris, DO, MS
Stage 3 of IPF is when oxygen is needed 24 hours a day, with activity, at rest and during sleep.

 

How can the caregiver help someone with Stage 3 Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)?

  • Learn the ins and outs of oxygen systems for use at home, when away from home and when traveling.

  • Continue to be a second set of ears, with the durable medical equipment (DME) company as the oxygen needs change.

  • Continue to discuss and write down questions.

  • Encourage the person with IPF to live a full life, including social interactions, regular exercise, healthy eating, rest and support from others.

  • If you haven’t yet, get the book Adventures of an Oxy-Phile by Dr. Thomas Petty.

  • Remember to take care of yourself.

 

Clinical Trials

For more than 100 years, National Jewish Health has been committed to finding new treatments and cures for diseases. Search our clinical trials.