Things you may not know about Cystic Fibrosis

What are the symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis?

Because CF produces various effects on the body, the disease may be confused with other gastrointestinal or respiratory conditions such as pancreatitis or asthma. In some cases, people with CF do not appear to be seriously ill. Symptoms may include some or all of the following:

*upset stomach
*physically smaller than classmates
*fatigue
*persistent coughing, at times with mucus or phlegm
*recurrent respiratory infections, perhaps including pneumonia;
  and wheezing or shortness of breath.

Digestive Problems....

CF mucus also can obstruct the digestive system and prevent pancreatic enzymes from reaching the small intestine. Without treatment, the body cannot digest food and nutrients properly, so children with CF can be smaller and grow more slowly than their classmates.

Most people with CF need to take pancreatic enzyme supplements with meals and maintain a high-calorie diet to help their bodies absorb the proper level of nutrients. When eating meals and snacks, CF'rs may take pills including pancreatic enzymes and antibiotics.

In addition, although enzymes aid digestion, people with CF may still experience abdominal pain, foul-smelling gas and/or diarrhea. It is important for CF'rs to have frequent access to the bathroom. 

Clearing the lungs...

The thick, sticky mucus produced in CF airways clogs breathing passages and is a breeding ground for lung infections. Coughing is the body’s primary method of clearing the mucus that clogs CF lungs. It is important that children with CF not hinder their coughs.

Infection control...

One of the most important things a child with CF can do to stay healthy is to minimize exposure to germs and harmful bacteria. Frequent hand hygiene, which includes washing one’s hands with soap and water and/or using alcohol-based hand gel, is best.

Exercise...

Exercise is beneficial to children with CF because it helps loosen the mucus that clogs the lungs and helps strengthen the muscles used to breath. Children with CF should be encouraged to exercise and play as much as possible. Because of breathing difficulties, however, some children with CF may not have as much stamina as other children and may tire easily.

*Information via http://www.cff.org/