Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease where the body creates an unusually thick, sticky mucus. The abnormal mucus clogs the lungs, causing infections and making it difficult to breathe. This mucous also prevents the pancreas from secreting the digestive enzymes produced. Without these enzymes, it's hard for the body to absorb enough nutrients. Physical growth can be affected.

Symptoms include:

• Salty tasting skin.
• Persistent cough, sometimes with phlegm.
• Frequent lung infections.
• Shortness of breath or wheezing.
• Slow growth and weight gain, in spite of eating well.
• Frequent bowel movements that may be greasy and bulky.

Talk to your primary care physician right away if you or your child has any of these symptoms. Early treatment can help reduce the impact of this disease.

Children are typically diagnosed before two years of age. Diagnosis occurs in several ways:

• Newborn infant screening at birth (all children born in the U.S. are screened).
• Sweat chloride test.
• Genetic testing.
• Chest X-rays and lung function testing.
• Stool sample analysis.

Cystic fibrosis treatment eases your, or your child's, symptoms and improves quality of life. This disease affects individuals differently, so the treatment plan is tailored to you or your child.

Common treatments include:

• Airway Clearing Techniques help you clear the thick mucus from your lungs.
• Inhaled medicines (bronchodilators or antibiotics) are turned into a mist and inhaled.
• Pancreatic enzymes capsules are taken before meals and snacks to aid with digestion.

Treating Cystic Fibrosis in Adults

Cystic Fibrosis is potentially life-threatening. But recent progress in treatments has more than doubled the life expectancy for those living with cystic fibrosis. Our treatments are state-of-the-art and based on the latest research and standards. You'll get the expert care you need to keep going strong.