What is the main cause of Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Is it likely that breathing will become a problem and not get any better? Can it cause heart attacks?

Traditional theories have postulated that it might be an autoimmune disorder, or the after effects of an infection, viral in nature. There is a growing body of evidence which points to a genetic predisposition. A mutation in the SP-C protein has been found to exist in families with a history of Pulmonary Fibrosis. The most current thinking is that the fibrotic process is a reaction to microscopic injury to the lung. While the exact cause remains unknown, associations have been made with the following:
Inhaled environmental and occupational pollutants
Cigarette smoking
Diseases such as Scleroderma, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus and Sarcoidosis
Certain medications
Therapeutic radiation
Please see the webpages for more details on Pulmonary fibrosis.

General Discussion

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is an inflammatory lung disorder of unknown origin (idiopathic) characterized by abnormal formation of fibrous tissue (fibrosis) between the tiny air sacs (alveoli) or ducts of the lungs. Coughing and rapid, shallow breathing occur with moderate exercise. The skin may appear slightly bluish (cyanotic) due to lack of circulating oxygen. Complications such as infection, emphysema or heart problems may develop.

-----------

I would log onto the link below and do some more investigation.

1-
its called Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)... idiopathic means that the exact cause is unknown however, researchers believe that IPF may result from either an autoimmune disorder, a condition in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues, or the aftereffects of an infection, most likely a virus.In a few cases, heredity appears to play a part, possibly making some individuals more likely than others to get IPF.
2-
Early symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are usually similar to those of other lung diseases. Very often, for example, patients suffer from a dry cough and dyspnea (shortness of breath). As the disease progresses, dyspnea becomes the major problem. Day-to-day activities such as climbing stairs, walking short distances, dressing, and even talking on the phone and eating become more difficult and sometimes nearly impossible. Enlargement (clubbing) of the fingertips may develop. The patient may also become less able to fight infection. In advanced stages of the illness, the patient may need oxygen all the time.

3-
its more likely to cause right sided heart failure because of the presence of pulmonary hypertension.