Living With Cystic Fibrosis

Although there is not currently a cure for cystic fibrosis, there is treatment. Patients can also take an active role in their health. There are several things a person with cystic fibrosis can do to control symptoms and increase their quality of life.

Increasing quality of life with Cystic Fibrosis

Quality of life may mean different things to different people. But for everyone a decrease in symptoms and the ability to function as well as possible is the goal.

Although a pediatrician or internal medicine specialist may have some knowledge about cystic fibrosis, a pulmonologist is a lung specialist who should be aware of the latest treatments, research and clinical trials for the condition. You may also want to receive care at one of the 110 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation accredited care centers located throughout the United States.

In addition to seeking the right care team, one way to improve your wellbeing is by paying attention to what you eat. Many people with cystic fibrosis are encouraged to eat a high fat, high-calorie diet. Since people with cystic fibrosis often do not absorb adequate level of nutrients, they need to take in extra calories. In addition, doctors often recommend taking vitamins and pancreatic enzyme supplements after eating to increase the absorption of nutrients.

Exercise can improve lung health in anyone, and people with cystic fibrosis are no different. Speak with your doctor about the type of exercise you should participate in and how to get started. Lastly, if you have cystic fibrosis, avoid smoking and being around secondhand smoke, which can damage your lungs even further.

Treatments Increases Life expectancy 

According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, there are many people with cystic fibrosis living into their 40s and 50s. Fifty years ago, children with the condition usually did not make it to their teens.There has been an increase in life expectancy due to improved understanding of the condition and more effective treatments.

Treatment for cystic fibrosis includes airway clearance techniques. This type of treatment involves the use of varied equipment to help loosen mucus from the lungs. Patients and their families are taught how to perform the various techniques at home to increase adherence to the regimen.

Inhaled medication is also often prescribed to people with cystic fibrosis. Various types of inhaled medications are used, which ease symptoms. For example, medication is available, which helps patients cough up mucus. Other inhaled medications contain antibiotics, which helps treat lung infections. In addition to inhaled medication, oral antibiotics are also often needed to treat respiratory infections.

See Also: Cystic Fibrosis: Causes & Risk factors

Recent advances in the treatment of cystic fibrosis include a medication, which treats the underlying cause of the condition. The drug is being tried on a small number of patients, and additional research is needed to determine its effectiveness. Although more work needs to be done to identify a definitive cure for cystic fibrosis, progress is being made.