Interstitial Lung Disease: It’s not just a cough

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is more than just a medical term; it's a reality that many Australians face daily.

One in four Australians currently has a lung disease, yet, almost half of the Australian population rarely, if ever, thinks about the health of their lungs— especially if they don’t smoke cigarettes.

The lack of awareness about lung diseases can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, exacerbating the impact of these conditions. In most cases, the first signs of ILD (Interstitial Lung Disease)—persistent cough, breathlessness, and fatigue—are often mistaken for less serious issues like the common cold or allergies.

But what if it’s more than that? Ignoring these symptoms can lead to severe consequences, especially if you’ve been exposed to hazardous materials in your workplace.

What is Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)?

ILD (Interstitial Lung Disease) is an umbrella term for a group of conditions that cause scarring and inflammation in lungs. The scarring, also known as fibrosis, damages the lung’s air sacs and the surrounding area, which reduces the transfer of oxygen from the lungs into the bloodstream.

Many lung conditions fall under the ILD umbrella. These include pulmonary diseases such as asbestosis, silicosis, sarcoidosis, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, all of which are workplace lung conditions. These lung conditions, particularly those that are caused by occupational exposure, are usually linked to industries where workers are exposed to harmful airborne toxins like asbestos fibres or crystalline silica dust.

What are the common signs and symptoms of ILD?

ILDs produce several symptoms, including:

• progressive chronic breathlessness (dyspnea)
• a persistent dry cough
• chest pain/discomfort
• fatigue
• weight loss

What occupational exposures can lead to ILD, and are there any industries that are at an increased risk?

The current available medical literature supports a link between exposure to inorganic dust, fumes, and chemicals and the following ILDs:

I have been diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). Can I make a claim?

IPF is a specific type of ILD where the underlying cause of the condition is unknown.

If you have been diagnosed with IPF and have been exposed to dust, fumes, chemicals or vapours in the course of your employment, we recommend making your treating doctor aware of your exposure and seeking legal advice, as you may still have entitlements to compensation.

What should I do if I suspect I have an ILD?

You should speak to your General Practitioner to discuss your concerns and symptoms. Your GP will likely perform a physical examination, arrange a chest scan and refer you to a lung specialist. A breathing test (usually a pulmonary function test) is often performed to measure a person’s lung function impairment, and, in some circumstances, a surgical lung biopsy may be recommended.