Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a condition that affects the alveoli and leads to serious lung damage, and the idiopathic nature of this disease means that the origin or cause is unknown. This disease is relatively rare, affecting 3 in 10,000 people, but it is becoming more common. Physicians should be aware of the early stages and symptoms of this disease so management strategies can be implemented quickly, and the best treatment can be administered.