Cystic Fibrosis

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Other names for Cystic Fibrosis

CF
Mucoviscidosis
Autosomal Recessive CFTR Disorder
Cystic Fibrosis of the Pancreas

Synopsis of Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the exocrine glands, causing the production of abnormally thick, sticky mucus that can clog the lungs, pancreas, intestines, and other organs. It is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which impairs the transport of chloride and water across cell membranes. This leads to mucus buildup, chronic infections, organ damage, and difficulty absorbing nutrients.

CF is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning a person must inherit two faulty copies of the gene (one from each parent) to develop the condition. It primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems, and while it used to be a fatal childhood disease, advances in treatment have significantly improved life expectancy.

Common Symptoms:

  • Chronic coughing with thick mucus

  • Frequent lung infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia)

  • Wheezing or shortness of breath

  • Salty-tasting skin

  • Poor weight gain despite good appetite

  • Greasy, bulky stools or constipation

  • Nasal polyps or chronic sinusitis

  • Male infertility (due to congenital absence of vas deferens)

Common Causes and Triggers of Flare-ups:

  • CFTR gene mutation (most commonly ΔF508)

  • Respiratory infections

  • Poor nutrition or fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies (A, D, E, K)

  • Dehydration

  • Environmental pollutants or smoke

  • Poor adherence to airway clearance or enzyme therapies

Severity Factors:

  • Specific genetic mutations (some forms are milder than others)

  • Degree of lung function loss

  • Frequency of infections and hospitalizations

  • Pancreatic insufficiency (most people with CF require enzyme replacement)

  • Onset of CF-related diabetes or liver disease

When to See a Doctor:

  • Increased coughing, sputum, or shortness of breath

  • Fever or signs of lung infection

  • Significant weight loss or poor growth in children

  • New digestive symptoms or signs of malabsorption

  • Recurrent sinus infections

  • Symptoms that don’t improve with usual treatments

 

Natural remedies for Cystic Fibrosis

Airway clearance therapies: Chest physiotherapy, postural drainage, or vibration vests

Hydration: Keeps mucus thin and easier to expel

Humidified air: Prevents airway dryness and mucus thickening

High-calorie, nutrient-rich diet: With pancreatic enzymes if needed

Daily exercise: Enhances lung function and mucus clearance

Avoidance of smoke and pollutants: Reduces inflammation and infection risk

Good hand hygiene: To reduce infection transmission

Vitamin supplementation: Especially A, D, E, and K with fat-containing meals