Symptoms of shortness of breath, the finding of crackles, the vital capacity measurement, the diffusing capacity measurement, and the x-ray findings are used to monitor individuals with IPF/UIP.

No change in shortness of breath, pulmonary function tests, or the x-ray findings indicate stabilization. Increasing shortness of breath, decreasing vital capacity, decreasing diffusing capacity, and increasing honeycombing seen in the x-ray indicates progression. An infection, especially if there is fever or greenish phlegm, or a different respiratory illness may also be the cause of these new or progressive symptoms.