Diagnosis of Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis is a disease which is often diagnosed at birth or shortly afterwards. Babies born with CF suffer with bowel problems and struggle to gain weight.
There is currently no cure for Cystic Fibrosis. The treatment available is designed to alleviate the symptoms and help to manage the condition more effectively to ensure sufferers can lead their lives in as normal a way as possible.
How is Cystic Fibrosis treated?
CF is treated with a combination of medication, physiotherapy and exercise:
Medication – The three main types of drugs used to treat CF in the lungs are Bronchodilator medicines to open up the airways; antibiotics to fight off infection; and steroids to ease inflammation. To aid digestion CF sufferers are also required to take pancreatic enzymes with every meal and snack. Some CF medicines such as Bronchodilators can be administered by inhalation using a nebuliser. A nebuliser is a device which transforms liquid medication into a fine mist for inhalation deep into the lungs using a mask or mouthpiece.
Physiotherapy – Daily physiotherapy is essential for clearing mucus from the airways and minimising infection. Initially physiotherapy is carried out in the home by a parent or carer. Once old enough to manage their own therapy, CF sufferers will carry out their own daily routine.
Exercise – Daily exercise is very important for maintaining good lung health and physical strength and is an integral part of treating and managing Cystic Fibrosis.