Cystic Fibrosis Research Paper

Words: 702
Pages: 3

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal genetic disease. One out of three people with CF show signs of the disease as an infant. However, the other 2/3rd’s may not present with any debilitating symptoms until they are older adolescents or adults even though the disease is already present (ALA).

David A. Stoltz, MD intelligently writes in “The Origins of Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease,” about the cause of CF. He shares, “Cystic fibrosis… is an autosomal recessive disease caused by mutations in the gene encoding the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance regulator (CTFR)” (Stoltz). According to Dr. Ananya Mandal in “Cystic Fibrosis Facts,” states that the “mutation of the CFTR gene” allows too much salt ,and not enough water into the lung cells. The little hairs, called cilia, that normally keep airways clear and clean, become laden down with bacteria that the body cannot fight. Neutrophil’s are part of the white blood
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This creates respiratory symptoms such as: constant wheezing, cough, pneumonia and sinusitis. Some patients have digestive problems such as constipation and intestinal blockage. Patients often remain weak and thin due to lack of nutrients absorbed into the body cells …show more content…
Many treatments include, numerous Airway Clearance Techniques (ACTs). Chest physical therapy with postural drainage and high frequency (the vest or machine) are two common therapies used on a daily basis. Patients also utilize inhaled steroids, antibiotics, broncodialators, mucus thinners (mucolytics) and many more drugs to manage their lung functionality. Physicians and practitioners highly recommend a healthy diet. A diet consisting of lots of proteins, vitamins and enzymes, along with exercise will strengthen the health, and boost the immune systems.(Cunningham,