›› Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis affects the lungs and digestive system. It involves the build up of mucus in the lungs making breathing difficult. The mucus blocks ducts in the pancreas which leads to digestive problems.

Causes

Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited disease. It can be passed on by parents even though they may not have the disorder. If both parents carried the disease but did not suffer from it, there is a 1 in 4 chance of producing a sufferer. It is not contagious.

Symptoms

Most suffers are diagnosed before they are 3 years old. Common symptoms include;

• Lung infections
• Pneumonia
• Bad Cough
• diarrhea
• Weight Loss
• Tiredness
• Poor growth
• Salty Sweat
• Mucus
• Infections
• Bronchitis
• Asthma
• Nasal polyps

If a doctor suspects anyone of having Cystic Fibrosis, they will analyses that persons sweat for chloride. If there is a high level of chloride, the person may suffer from Cystic Fibrosis.

Treatments

• Chest massage to loosen mucus
• Vitamin tablets as well as a good diet.
  
• Humidifiers
  
• Bronchodilators to widen breathing tube.
  
• Antibiotics - to prevent infections

More treatments are available depending on the severity of the mucus.

Related Links

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Cystic Fibrosis Forum