What is cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs, digestive system, and other organs.
What causes cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis is caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, which results in the production of thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and other organs.
What are the symptoms of cystic fibrosis?
The most common symptoms of cystic fibrosis include persistent coughing, frequent lung infections, difficulty breathing, and poor growth and weight gain in children.
What are the treatments for cystic fibrosis?
Treatments for cystic fibrosis include medications to thin mucus and improve lung function, antibiotics to treat infections, and nutritional support to help maintain a healthy weight.
Is there a cure for cystic fibrosis?
There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
How is cystic fibrosis diagnosed?
Cystic fibrosis is typically diagnosed through a combination of genetic testing, sweat testing, and lung function tests.
What is the life expectancy for someone with cystic fibrosis?
The life expectancy for people with cystic fibrosis has significantly improved in recent years and is currently around 44 years on average.
Can cystic fibrosis be prevented?
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder and cannot be prevented through lifestyle changes. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve outcomes.
Is cystic fibrosis contagious?
No, cystic fibrosis is not contagious. It is a genetic disorder that is passed down from parents to their children.
What are some of the digestive symptoms of cystic fibrosis?
Digestive symptoms of cystic fibrosis can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and poor appetite.
What is the role of physiotherapy in the treatment of cystic fibrosis?
Physiotherapy is an important part of cystic fibrosis treatment to help clear mucus from the lungs and improve breathing.
What is the function of the CFTR gene?
The CFTR gene is responsible for the production of a protein that regulates the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. In people with cystic fibrosis, this protein does not function properly, resulting in the buildup of thick, sticky mucus.
What are some of the respiratory symptoms of cystic fibrosis?
Respiratory symptoms of cystic fibrosis can include wheezing, shortness of breath, chronic cough, and frequent lung infections.
What is a sweat test?
A sweat test is a diagnostic test used to measure the amount of salt in a person's sweat. High levels of salt can indicate the presence of cystic fibrosis.
How is cystic fibrosis inherited?
Cystic fibrosis is typically inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means both parents must have a copy of the mutated CFTR gene for their child to be affected.
What is the most common mutation that causes cystic fibrosis?
The delta F508 mutation is the most common genetic mutation associated with cystic fibrosis, accounting for approximately 70% of cases.
What is end-stage cystic fibrosis?
End-stage cystic fibrosis refers to advanced disease that has led to significant lung damage and other complications, often requiring intensive medical management and potentially lung transplantation.
What is the goal of cystic fibrosis treatment?
The goal of cystic fibrosis treatment is to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.
What are some nutritional strategies for managing cystic fibrosis?
Nutritional strategies for managing cystic fibrosis may include a high-calorie diet, enzyme replacement therapy, and vitamin supplementation.
Can people with cystic fibrosis participate in physical activity?
Yes, people with cystic fibrosis are encouraged to engage in regular physical activity to help maintain respiratory function and overall health.
What is the difference between cystic fibrosis and asthma?
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects multiple organ systems, while asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the airways.
What is the prognosis for someone with cystic fibrosis?
The prognosis for people with cystic fibrosis has significantly improved in recent years with advances in treatment. However, the disease can still be life-threatening, particularly in advanced stages.
What is the role of genetics in cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene. As such, genetics plays a fundamental role in the development and progression of the disease.
What is the median age of diagnosis for cystic fibrosis?
The median age of diagnosis for cystic fibrosis is currently around 2 years old.
What is the role of antibiotics in the treatment of cystic fibrosis?
Antibiotics are commonly used to treat lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis, as respiratory infections can be a significant complication of the disease.
What are some potential complications of cystic fibrosis?
Potential complications of cystic fibrosis can include lung infections, malnutrition, pancreatic insufficiency, and infertility.
What is the benefit of early diagnosis of cystic fibrosis?
Early diagnosis of cystic fibrosis can help ensure prompt initiation of appropriate treatment to manage symptoms and prevent disease progression.
What is the heritability of cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis has an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern, meaning both parents must have a copy of the mutated gene for their child to be affected.
What is the prevalence of cystic fibrosis?
The prevalence of cystic fibrosis varies by geographic region, but it is estimated to affect approximately 1 in every 3,500 to 4,000 live births in the United States.
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