Cystic Fibrosis

Overview

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. It causes thick, sticky mucus to build up, leading to breathing difficulties and frequent infections. While CF is a lifelong condition, advances in treatment have greatly improved quality of life and life expectancy for those affected.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of cystic fibrosis include:

  • Persistent coughing with thick mucus
  • Frequent lung infections
  • Wheezing or shortness of breath
  • Poor weight gain and growth in children
  • Salty-tasting skin
  • Digestive problems, including difficulty absorbing nutrients

Causes

Cystic fibrosis is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which regulates salt and water balance in the body. CF is inherited when both parents carry the defective gene. Each pregnancy has a 25% chance of producing a child with CF if both parents are carriers.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing cystic fibrosis typically involves:

  • Newborn screening tests
  • Sweat tests to measure salt content in sweat
  • Genetic testing to identify CFTR mutations
  • Lung function tests
  • Imaging studies like chest X-rays or CT scans

Treatment Options

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we offer comprehensive care for children with cystic fibrosis, including:

  • Airway clearance techniques and breathing exercises
  • Inhaled medications to thin mucus and open airways
  • Enzyme replacement therapy to improve digestion
  • Nutritional support and specialized diets
  • New CFTR modulator therapies that target the underlying genetic defect
  • Regular monitoring and treatment of lung infections

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Cystic Fibrosis. Here’s why families trust us:

“When our daughter was diagnosed with CF, we were scared and overwhelmed. The team at Gertrude's has been incredible. They've given us hope and helped our daughter thrive. She's now active in sports and doing great in school!”

Michaelfather of 12-year-old CF patient

Cystic Fibrosis

While there's no cure yet, new treatments are helping people with CF live longer, healthier lives.

Regular check-ups are important. Most patients visit every 3-4 months, but this can vary based on individual needs.

Yes, most children with CF attend regular school. We work with families and schools to manage treatments and any special needs.

Contact Us

If your child has been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis or you’re concerned about symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our expert team is here to provide support, answer questions, and deliver top-quality care.

Contact us today to learn more about our Cystic Fibrosis treatment options.

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