Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is a group of conditions that affect the interstitium—the delicate tissue and space around the air sacs of the lungs. When this tissue becomes inflamed or scarred, the lungs turn stiff and cannot expand properly. As a result, oxygen has difficulty passing into the bloodstream, leading to breathlessness. ILD is not a single disease; it includes many related disorders with similar effects on the lungs. ILD often develops silently and progresses slowly. Many people ignore early symptoms, mistaking them for aging, poor fitness, or asthma. If not recognized early, ILD can cause permanent lung damage, reduced quality of life, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure. Early awareness and timely medical care can slow disease progression and improve outcome. jairam respiratory health mission provides evidence based treatment for interstitial lung disease. Dr saket sharma MD, DM (PULMONARY & CRITICAL CARE)