Can traditional Chinese medicine be used for treating white lung in interstitial pneumonia?

Generally speaking, whether patients with interstitial pneumonia and white patches in the lungs can take traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) depends on their specific conditions. During the stable phase of the disease, TCM may usually be taken under a doctor's guidance as an adjunctive treatment. However, during an acute exacerbation phase, taking TCM might not be appropriate. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the condition of interstitial pneumonia with white patches in the lungs is relatively mild and the disease is in a stable phase, with relatively moderate symptoms, the patient may take TCM under the guidance of a specialized doctor to help alleviate discomfort such as coughing and shortness of breath and to assist in regulating overall body condition. However, it should be noted that TCM cannot replace primary medical treatments.

When the patient's condition is in an acute exacerbation phase, with extensive white patches in the lungs and significant symptoms such as severe shortness of breath and chest tightness, priority should be given to emergency Western medical treatments and targeted interventions. Blindly taking TCM at this stage may delay timely treatment and hinder recovery.

To prevent worsening of white patches in the lungs due to interstitial pneumonia, it is recommended to maintain proper lung care in daily life, such as avoiding smoking and exposure to dust or irritating gases, keeping warm to prevent colds, and ensuring good indoor air circulation. If discomfort symptoms arise, timely measures should be taken and professional guidance followed.