Cystic fibrosis is a fatal disorder, which causes the thickening of mucus glands in the exocrine system. Over time this thickening can make it difficult to swallow, breathe and digest foods. In order to live a full life with the disorder, you must first understand what causes cystic fibrosis and how is it treated. Specialists are often consulted to help with at home care and breathing problems.

Treatments:

Most treatments for the disease are focused on clearing mucus or reducing its quantity to promote healthy respiratory airways. Your doctor will first diagnose the severity of the symptoms and then recommend supplements, multivitamins, mucolytic agents to reduce mucus, as well as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication.

Inhaler devices for bronchial treatment are usually prescribed, and taken as needed, or at regular intervals throughout the day to strengthen lungs and prevent flare ups. Individuals who suffer from asthma or bronchitis along with CF have a harder time coping with their symptoms.

Causes of the Disorder:

Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disorder, which affects the glands, which produce mucus. Many individuals with CF will develop a chest infection as a result of the disorder. It is very serious and can result in severe symptoms, and even fatality, if not properly monitored and treated by medical professionals.

It isn't enough to know what causes cystic fibrosis and how is it treated, you must also know where to look for it. CF is most commonly found in children and young adults, presenting mild symptoms which progress over time. Currently, there is no cure for the disorder, and treatments are used primarily to reduce the symptoms and offer temporary relief.

Cystic fibrosis is passed down from parent to child when both parents give a specific gene to their offspring. There is a 25% chance that a child will develop the disorder if parents are carriers, and a 50% chance of the children being a carrier of the disease, and pass it on to their own children as well.

Symptoms to Be Aware Of:

Aside from the high level of mucus in cases of CF, parents and guardians should also watch for signs of intestinal obstruction, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, dehydration, chest infections which become frequent, and shortness of breath in children. Individuals with CF may also experience wheezing, coughing, and pneumonia.

Men who are diagnosed with cystic fibrosis may become infertile, or have trouble conceiving a baby. Both men and women with the disorder will notice that their sweat is excessively salty. This is because CF patients have trouble retaining water, and must drink more of it to dilute mucus and relieve respiratory issues.

For more information on what causes cystic fibrosis and how is it treated, speak to your family doctor. If you are concerned that somebody you know has CF, be sure to have it diagnosed as soon as possible. While there is no way to completely eradicate the disorder, catching it in its earliest stages offers the most symptom relief and possibly lengthens the patient’s life.