Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs Interstitial lung diseaseUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewInterstitial lung disease may be caused by long-term exposure to hazardous materials, such as asbestos or coal dust, or an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Once lung scarring occurs, it's generally irreversible. SymptomsSymptoms include a dry cough and shortness of breath at rest or aggravated by exertion. TreatmentsMedications can slow the damage. A lung transplant may be an option for some people. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use