How is CYSTIC FIBROSIS treated?
MEDICATIONS
- Antibiotics may be prescribed to get rid of a lung infection and to prevent another infection from occurring in the future.
They are usually given as liquids, tablets, or capsules. In more severe cases, injections or infusions of antibiotics can be given intravenously, or through a vein.
- Mucus-thinning medications make the mucus thinner and less sticky.
They also help you to cough up the mucus so it leaves the lungs.
This significantly improves lung function.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and indomethacin, may help reduce any pain and fever associated with cystic fibrosis.
- Bronchodilators relax the muscles around the tubes that carry air to the lungs, which helps increase airflow.
You can take this medication through an inhaler or a nebulizer.
- Bowel surgery is an emergency surgery that involves the removal of a section of the bowel.
It may be performed to relieve a blockage in the bowels.
- Cystic fibrosis may interfere with digestion and prevent the absorption of nutrients from food.
A feeding tube to supply nutrition can be passed through the nose or surgically inserted directly into the stomach.
- A lung transplant involves removing a damaged lung and replacing it with a healthy one, usually from a deceased donor.
The surgery may be necessary when someone with cystic fibrosis has severe breathing problems.
In some cases, both lungs may need to be replaced. This can potentially lead to serious complications after surgery, including pneumonia.
BACK TO TOP
CHEST PHYSICAL TEST
Chest therapy helps loosen the thick mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough it up.
It is typically performed one to four times per day.
A common technique involves placing the head over the edge of a bed and clapping with cupped hands along the sides of the chest.
Mechanical devices may also be used to clear mucus. These include:
- A chest clapper, which imitates the effects of clapping with cupped hands along the sides of the chest
- An inflatable vest, which vibrates at a high frequency to help remove chest mucus
BACK TO TOP
HOME CARE
Cystic fibrosis can prevent the intestines from absorbing necessary nutrients from food.
If you have cystic fibrosis, you might need up to 50 percent more calories per day than people who don not the disease.
You may also need to take pancreatic enzyme capsules with every meal. Your doctor may also recommend antacids, multivitamins, and a diet high in fiber and salt.
If you have cystic fibrosis, you should do the following:
- Drink plenty of fluids because they can help thin the mucus in the lungs.
- Exercise regularly to help loosen mucus in the airways. Walking, biking, and swimming are great options.
- Avoid smoke, pollen, and mold whenever possible. These irritants can make symptoms worse.
- Get influenza and pneumonia vaccinations regularly.
BACK TO TOP
