Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that causes significant damage within the digestive and respiratory systems. The damage is the result of a buildup of sticky and thick mucus within the organs. This disease affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat, and various digestive enzymes. These fluids are usually smooth and thin like oil, and they are used to lubricate certain tissues and organs so that they're less likely to become dry or infected. In people who have cystic fibrosis, however, a fault in the genes causes these fluids to become sticky and thick. Rather than acting like a lubricant, these fluids clog up the tubes and ducts of the body, leading to life-threatening concerns, malnutrition, and respiratory failures. Here, we'll discuss what is cystic fibrosis and the accompanying symptoms and signs and possible treatments.
What is Cystic Fibrosis? Symptoms and Signs:
The symptoms and signs associated with cystic fibrosis can vary according to the person and the severity of the condition. Additionally, the age at which symptoms develop may also differ. Symptoms can sometimes appear during infancy, but for some children, those symptoms may not begin until later life. As time passes by, the symptoms that are commonly linked with the disease can get worse or better.
One of the first signs of cystic fibrosis might be a strong salty taste in the skin. Other symptoms occur from complications from the disease that have an impact on the glandular organs, liver, pancreas, and lungs. For instance, people with this kind of disorder might have respiratory problems or digestive problems.
What is Cystic Fibrosis? Treatment Options:
Although there isn't any specific cure for cystic fibrosis, there are certain treatments available that can help to minimize symptoms and reduce the risk of various complications. For instance, antibiotics can be prescribed to treat a lung infection and prevent another infection from taking place in the future. Usually, these antibiotics are given in tablet or liquid form, but they can also be given intravenously in severe cases. Additionally, mucus-thinning medications can be used to make mucus within the body less sticky and often thinner. These can help patients cough up mucus and get it out of the lungs.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as indomethacin and ibuprofen, can reduce pain and discomfort linked to cystic fibrosis. Bronchodilators can relax the muscles around the throat that carry air into the lungs, which can improve airflow, you can take this type of medication through a nebulizer or inhaler. Meanwhile, bowel surgery is a form of emergency surgery that involves removing a section of the bowel. It can be performed to remove blockages in the bowel too.
Cystic fibrosis sometimes interferes with digestion, and this can be remedied by inserting a feeding tube to supply nutrition directly into the stomach through the nose. What's more, a lung transplant can be used to remove a damaged lung that is affected by cystic fibrosis and replace it with a lung that is healthier, ensuring a better quality of life for someone who is struggling with constant respiratory problems, or an inability to breathe normally.