Diagnosis & Treatment at Washington Township Medical Foundation
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that causes damage to the digestive
system and the lungs. This chronic condition can be life threatening.
Cystic fibrosis causes the cells responsible for production of sweat,
mucus, and digestive fluids to malfunction, making these fluids sticky
and thick and causing them to block the body’s passageways and ducts.
Airways in the lungs can be blocked by mucus, generating damage and impairing
breathing. This condition causes frequent sinus and lung infections along
with gastrointestinal problems.
Some of the symptoms of cystic fibrosis may include:
- Fatty stools
- Infants with low weight, unable to gain weight
- Chronic coughing
- Frequent lung infections
- Excessive sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Year-round allergies
Medical Advancements for Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis
Due to advancements in treatments and care over the last 20 to 30 years,
patients with cystic fibrosis are leading longer lives with increased
quality of life. Earlier diagnosis has also played a role. Where children
were once diagnosed by age two based on symptoms, newborn screening is
now available in all 50 states. Treatments are available to help thin
mucus in airways, along with antibiotics to tackle infections and enzymes
that are helpful in absorbing fats / nutrients in the body. New treatments
are also available to repair the CFTR protein. Speak with your doctor
at Washington Township Medical Foundation in Fremont to learn more.