Fibrosis is the creation of extra connective tissue caused by environmental factors or health conditions. Unlike common scar tissue, fibrosis can cause tissue or organ damage in surrounding areas and can become progressive. It can occur in localized locations such as the lungs, and causes include lung conditions, autoimmune diseases, and genetic abnormalities such as cystic fibrosis.
Fibrosis is the creation of extra connective tissue in response to some type of damage or injury to the body caused by environmental factors or health conditions. Also called scar tissue, this process hardens tissues by fusing them together. However, unlike common scar tissue, as can be seen when there is a minor split or cut in the skin, the causes of fibrosis include conditions within the body when there is a long-standing problem that creates inflammation or recurring injuries.
Whereas normal scar tissue can cause a permanent change in the structure of the skin or organ involved, fibrosis can cause tissue or organ damage in the surrounding or underlying areas. Depending on the causes of the fibrosis, it can also become progressive continuing to damage the surrounding area more. This can result in decreased circulation which inhibits the transport of key nutrients and the removal of waste products in the body. In turn, this stunted circulation can increase the risk of infection and intensify generalized pain and swelling.
This abnormal thickening of tissue can occur in a localized location such as the lungs, referred to as pulmonary fibrosis. In the lungs, the damage can decrease elasticity by inhibiting the lungs’ ability to expand properly. This can occur in response to environmental factors such as repeated or continued exposure to pollutants, chemicals or toxins such as radiation. Certain medications or sufferers of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), otherwise referred to as chronic heartburn, can also experience a certain amount of scarring in the lungs.
Causes of fibrosis in the pulmonary system can also include the body’s response to lung conditions such as tuberculosis or chronic pneumonia. The infection process or the use of medications for an extended period of time can also be a factor in the causes of fibrosis. Some autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly referred to as lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to the causes of fibrosis and scarring of the lungs and other organs in the body.
When this reaction involves the whole body, it is called cystic fibrosis, also known as mucoviscidosis. This form of widespread scarring is caused by an abnormal change in a gene. This alteration changes a protein that controls the movement of salts through the body. This can affect many body systems including the lungs, digestion and reproduction. Cystic fibrosis can severely disturb breathing and nutrition and, due to its progressive nature, is often fatal.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
