Cystic fibrosis (CF)is a hereditary disease that affects the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems.
However, it can also be diagnosed later in life and into adulthood.
This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and complications associated with CF.
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How Is Cystic Fibrosis Inherited?
The gene responsible for CF, called CFTR, plays a role in encoding cells known as epithelial ions.
If both parents have the same gene mutation, their child has a 25% chance of developing CF.
What Is the Life Expectancy for Someone With CF?
CF is a fatal disease, but many people with CF can receive treatment and maintain quality of life.
What Causes Cystic Fibrosis?
Thecause of CFis the inheritance of two faulty CFTR genes.
The genes are considered faulty because they are not whole.
Rather, part of the gene is missing, making the instructions the gene provides incomplete.
These genes provide instructions to the CFTR protein.
This specific protein plays a role inmucusandsweatproduction.
Symptoms develop when the body lacks adequate salt stores.
White people are the most likely to develop CF.
Cystic Fibrosis Symptoms
CF is aprogressive disease, meaning its symptoms worsen over time.
Late Diagnosis of CF
Not everyone with CF will receive a diagnosis as a child.
Its entirely possible for the signs and symptoms to become more prominent as a person reaches adulthood.
People diagnosed with CF later in life tend to have less severe cases.
How Is CF Diagnosed?
Newborns are screened for CF because of how important early diagnosis and treatment are.
The diagnostic process for newborns includes a blood test.
The sweat test is the most common key in of testing for people of any age experiencing CF symptoms.
To perform the sweat test, healthcare providers apply a chemical to the skin that induces sweat.
Once enough sweat has been produced, the sample is collected and analyzed for excessive salt.
It will depend on whether each partner has the CFTR gene.
However, various treatments are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life in those with CF.
Airway Clearance
Ensuring the airways are clear is crucial for people with CF.
CF affects people differently, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment.
CF Support and Resources
For further support, people with CF can access many resources.
Resources can help with education, community, and psychological distress resulting from CF.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Facts About Cystic Fibrosis.
University of Michigan Health Michigan Medicine.Cystic Fibrosis (Adults).
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Medline Plus.Cystic Fibrosis.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Cystic Fibrosis - Diagnosis.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Cystic Fibrosis - Treatment.
