Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that does not have a documented cure till date. However, with timely cystic fibrosis diagnosis and proper treatment, the disease can be managed efficiently. The cystic fibrosis treatment or management plan is formulated based on the severity of the disease.

The various treatment options can also differ based on the part of the body that’s affected, and these have been mentioned below in detail.

Cystic Fibrosis Treatment For Lung Problems

The most common organ affected in cystic fibrosis patients is the lung. The treatment options available for specific cystic fibrosis effects are chest physical therapy, medications, and exercise.

• Chest Physical Therapy (CPT)

  The lungs are blocked by mucus and this has to be loosened in order to facilitate breathing. CPT is a specialized physical therapy where the chest and the back are pounded with the help of a specific device so that the mucus comes loose and is coughed out. This would in turn clear the airways and help in easy breathing.

• Medicines

  Individuals suffering from repeated lung infections can be treated with medicines like antibiotics that prevent bacterial infections. Anti inflammatory drugs can be used to reduce the swelling in the airways, which is mainly caused due to infections. Also, mucus-thinning medicines can be used to clear any blocked airways and bronchodilators can also be used for this purpose.

• Exercise

  Breathing exercises help in loosening the mucus, so much so that it can be coughed out. Through regular exercise, the overall condition can be improved.

How Advanced Lung Disease Can Be Treated

If the disease in the lung has reached an advanced stage, oxygen therapy is advised. Oxygen is supplied through a nasal mask or prongs in order to facilitate breathing. If this does not help, a lung transplant is the only option in such cases.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Treatment

This treatment plan concentrates on the overall well being of the individual with cystic fibrosis. The plan lays out specific training routines for exercising, a nutritional guide, and proper education to help patients manage the lung disease.

Cystic Fibrosis Treatment For Digestive Problems

The second most common bodily system to be affected by cystic fibrosis is the digestive system. This, in turn, leads to improper growth due to the lack of proper nutrition. A well-balanced diet that is rich in calories and contains more salt is usually recommended for coping with cystic fibrosis.

Oral supplements like pancreatic enzymes, vitamins A, D, E, and K and medications for thinning the mucus are also advised for people with cystic fibrosis.

The Need For Surgery In Cystic Fibrosis

In severe cases, surgery might be required to remove the nasal polyps that develop in the nose to facilitate breathing. Endoscopy and lavage is also performed to remove mucus from blocked airways in severe cases.

To facilitate digestion, a feeding tube is inserted into the stomach or implanted into the abdomen in order to continuously pass nutrients from an attached bag. In many cases, intestinal surgery might be required as a cystic fibrosis treatment measure if there is any blockage.