How long can a person live with rheumatoid interstitial lung disease?

Rheumatoid interstitial pneumonia may allow a survival period of approximately 10 to 20 years, but in some cases, survival may be around 2 to 3 years; the prognosis depends on individual circumstances.

1. Around 10–20 years

If diagnosed early, the condition is generally not severe. With timely and proper medical treatment, good care during therapy, and a positive mental state, patients can achieve better disease control, leading to a longer survival period—typically around 10 to 20 years, or even longer.

2. Around 2–3 years

If treatment is delayed and the disease is already advanced, therapeutic challenges increase. Poor nursing care, persistent anxiety or depression, or the development of complications such as systemic lupus erythematosus, may shorten the survival period to approximately 2 to 3 years.

It is recommended that patients seek medical attention promptly, actively cooperate with their physicians, and manage disease progression effectively to avoid treatment delays and protect overall health.