Guided by the theory of qi deficiency and phlegm obstruction

combined with modern clinical and experimental studies

the mechanism of oxidative stress in the pathological process of pulmonary fibrosis was analyzed and summarized. It is considered that the imbalance between oxidation and antioxidation is one of the important pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. In other words

oxidation can cause microvascular damage in local lung microenvironment

which can be attributed to phlegm obstruction of lung collaterals causing obstruction of lung collaterals; while antioxidant effect can resist oxidative damage

which is similar to the protective effect of lung qi. When the factors of qi deficiency and phlegm obstruction exist

it is easy to destroy the relationship between oxidation and antioxidation in vivo

resulting in the outcome of pulmonary fibrosis. Based on this

the clinical use of traditional Chinese medicine for invigorating qi and resolving phlegm in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis can achieve good results.