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Cystic Fybrosis Fact SheetCystic fibrosis treatment at UK HealthCare Understanding cystic fibrosis Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease affecting approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States. A defective gene causes the body to produce abnormally thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections. These thick secretions also obstruct the pancreas, preventing digestive enzymes from reaching the intestines to help break down and absorb food. More than 80 percent of cystic fibrosis patients are diagnosed by age three; however, nearly 10 percent of newly diagnosed cases are age 18 or older. Symptoms of cystic fibrosis Patients with cystic fibrosis have a variety of symptoms Diagnosing cystic fibrosis The sweat test is the standard diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis. In the first part of the test, a colorless, odorless chemical, known to cause sweating, is applied to a small area on an arm or leg. An electrode is then attached to the arm or leg, which allows the technician to apply a weak electrical current to the area to stimulate sweating. The second part of the test consists of cleaning the stimulated area and collecting the sweat on a piece of filter paper, gauze or plastic coil. The collected sweat is sent to a hospital laboratory for analysis. Treatment for cystic fibrosis The treatment of cystic fibrosis depends upon the stage of the disease and the organs involved. Clearing mucus from the lungs is an important part of the daily CF treatment regimen. Chest physical therapy is a form of airway clearance done by clapping on the back and chest to dislodge the thick mucus from the lungs. Various antibiotics are also used to treat lung infections. When CF affects the pancreas, as it does in the majority of patients, the body does not absorb sufficient nutrients needed. Most people with cystic fibrosis take daily vitamin supplements, eat a high-calorie diet and take pancreatic enzyme replacements with every meal to help them digest their food. Resources Kentucky Children’s Hospital
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
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