An inherited condition, cystic fibrosis affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices. Normally, these secretions are thin and slippery, but in cystic fibrosis, a defective gene causes the secretions to become thick and sticky. Instead of acting as a lubricant, the secretions plug up tubes, ducts and passageways, especially in the pancreas and lungs.

Symptoms

1)very salty-tasting skin;
2)persistent coughing, at times with phlegm;
3)frequent lung infections;
4)wheezing or shortness of breath;
5)poor growth/weight gain in spite of a good appetite; and
6)frequent greasy, bulky stools or difficulty in bowel movements.

Causes

In cystic fibrosis, a defective gene alters a protein that regulates the normal movement of salt (sodium chloride) in and out of cells. This results in thick, sticky secretions in the respiratory and digestive tracts, as well as in the reproductive system. It also causes increased salt in sweat.

The affected gene, which is inherited from a childs parents, is a recessive gene. With recessive genes, children need to inherit two copies of the gene, one from each parent, in order to have the disease. If children inherit only one copy, they will not develop cystic fibrosis, but will be carriers and possibly pass the gene to their own children.

Western Medicine Treatment

There is no cure for cystic fibrosis, but treatments can ease symptoms and reduce complications.

Medications and treatments

1)Antibiotics
2)Mucus-thinning drugs
3)Bronchodilators
4)Therapy
5)Chest clapper
6)Inflatable vest
7)Breathing devices
8)Feeding tube
9)Lung transplant
10)Bowel surgery

Adopted from mayoclinic.com