Inherited from both parents, cystic fibrosis (CF) is fatally damaging to the lungs, digestive system, and other organs.
Mucus, perspiration, and digestive juice cells are all impacted by cystic fibrosis. Typically, the secretions are thin and slick. However, in CF patients, the secretions are thick and sticky because of a faulty gene. Tubes, ducts, and passages, notably in the lungs and pancreas, get blocked as a result of the secretions.
People with CF may generally still go to school and work, despite the fact that the disease worsens with time and needs constant attention. They often do better than patients with CF did in earlier decades, in terms of quality of life. As screening and treatment options have advanced, individuals with CF are surviving longer; some are even making it into their 50s.
Symptoms
With the help of newborn screening programs in the United States, children may be tested for the genetic disorder cystic fibrosis as early as the first month of life, long before any symptoms appear. However, those who were born before CF screening was routinely performed may not be identified until they begin experiencing symptoms.
The symptoms and indicators of cystic fibrosis change as the condition worsens. Symptoms may increase or improve over time, even in the same individual. The onset of symptoms may be delayed until adolescence or maturity in certain cases. People who don't find out they have the condition until they're adults often have milder forms of it and more unusual symptoms, such as recurrent episodes of pancreatitis, infertility, and pneumonia.
The salt content of the perspiration of people with cystic fibrosis is greater than average. When parents kiss their kids, they frequently pick up a salty aftertaste. The respiratory and digestive systems are most affected by the other CF symptoms.
Symptoms and indications related to the respiratory system
Cystic fibrosis is characterized by the production of thick, sticky mucus that clogs the airways. This may manifest with symptoms like: - a hacking cough that generates thick mucus (sputum); - wheezing
Limitations in physical activity tolerance Recurrent lung infections
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