Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive disease that needs daily care. Though a patient needs to take medications lifelong, most people with cystic fibrosis are usually able to attend school and work. The improvement in screening and treatments mean that people with CF now may live into their mid- to late 30s or 40s, and some are living into their 50s. Read more: Cystic Fibrosis Life Span Article
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Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a disease of the mucus and sweat glands. Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease. The outcome of the disease leaves the body malnourished, with bulky and fouls smelling stools, vitamin insufficiency, gas, painful or swollen abdomen, infertility, susceptible to heat emergencies, and respiratory failure. There is no cure for cystic fibrosis, treatment of symptoms is used to manage the disease.
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What Is Bronchiectasis?
Bronchiectasis has three types: cylindrical bronchiectasis, saccular or varicose bronchiectasis, and cystic bronchiectasis. Causes of bronchiectasis include infection, environmental exposure, drug or alcohol abuse, and alpha-1 antitrypsin (congenital). Symptoms of bronchiectasis include shortness of breath, fatigue, chronic cough, bloody sputum, and wheezing. Treatment for bronchiectasis includes antibiotics and possibly surgery.
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How Long Can You Live With Cystic Fibrosis?
The life expectancy of patients with cystic fibrosis has improved over the last 50 years. The improved chances of survival are due to advances in early diagnosis, supportive care, nutritional care, and infection control.
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Can You Get Cystic Fibrosis at Any Age?
Cystic fibrosis is classically a disease of childhood that progresses into adulthood. If you have a genetic defect related to cystic fibrosis (CF), you are more likely to be born with cystic fibrosis. The symptoms might appear later, and hence, the age at diagnosis varies widely.
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How Is a Person's Life Affected By Cystic Fibrosis?
How long can you live with cystic fibrosis? Learn the signs of cystic fibrosis and what to do if someone you know has cystic fibrosis.
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How Is Meconium Ileus Treated?
Meconium ileus, a serious condition in newborn babies in which the intestines are blocked by the infant’s first stool, often needs surgical intervention and usually indicates the child will struggle with the congenital disease cystic fibrosis throughout their lives.
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