Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs which leads to lung infections and obstructs the pancreas and stops enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.



People with CF can have a variety of symptoms, depending on the severity of the disease. These symptoms include, but are not limited to: very salty-tasting skin, persistent productive coughing, frequent lung infections, wheezing or shortness of breath, poor growth/weight gain in spite of a good appetite, clubbing, chronic sinusitis, asthma and frequent greasy, bulky stools or difficulty in bowel movements.

Statistics show that about 1,000 new cases of cystic fibrosis are diagnosed each year. With the assistance of prenatal screening, more than 70% of patients are diagnosed by age two. Of the current CF patient population, more than 40% is age 18 or older.

With advances in research, new medical treatments and education, those with CF are able to live an extended life into their adulthood, with a life expectancy of 40 years and beyond.

Cystic Fibrosis can be diagnosed through several different methods. These methods include genetic testing, a sweat test, and pulmonary function testing.

Genetic testing is typically done during prenatal care. A sweat test is used to stimulate sweat glands in the forearm. Over a period of 30 to 60 minutes, sweat is collected on filter paper (or gauze) and tested for chloride. A chloride reading of more than 60 mEq/L is indicative to CF. And finally, pulmonary function testing is performed to evaluate the degree of airflow obstruction and lung reserve.

Since discovering the defective CF gene, there have been many efforts in correcting this disease that affects so many people. Because CF is a genetic disease, the most optimal way of a cure would be through gene therapy. However, gene therapy does not yet exist and other means of management are necessary to prolong the lives of CF patients. These methods include antibiotic therapy, physical therapy, exercise, and chest therapy (percussion). If these treatments are not enough, possible lung transplantation is the next option. Keep in mind that each patient is unique and is treated individually.

The digestive problems in those with CF are not as serious and are more easily managed. A well-balanced diet, low in fat and high in protein and digestive enzymes to aid in digestion is ideal. Supplemental vitamins which contain vitamins A, D, E, and K (fat soluble) are also given to ensure good nutrition.

In keeping your body fully functional and in optimal condition, exercise is considered a valuable tool. Running, jogging, aerobics, bicycling, swimming, and tennis are all examples of exercise that can be of benefit to a person with CF.

Exercise has many benefits for people with CF. First, exercise is a natural form of chest physiotherapy. The movements involved in exercise create a vibration that helps loosen mucus in the lungs so it can be coughed up more easily. Second, exercise stimulates coughing. Third, as in all patients, exercise improves cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and improving blood pressure. Lastly, exercise can improve mental attitude. Those with CF can feel like part of a team when involved with sporting activities. By participating in some physical activity, children can feel that CF no longer makes them stand out from the rest of their friends.

As complicated as Cystic fibrosis is, those diagnosed are under strict supervision and care of professionals. For additional information, please notify us at swimmingessentials.com.