Essays on Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory, digestive and reproductive systems of those affected. It is characterized by an abnormality in the cells that produce mucus, leading to thick and sticky mucus production. This can build up in the lungs and other organs, resulting in serious complications such as lung infections, difficulty breathing and impaired digestion. CF is generally diagnosed early on in life via a sweat test or a genetic test for certain mutations associated with CF. CF is caused by mutations to the gene responsible for producing cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Depending on which mutation(s) are present, different parts of the body may be affected more severely than others. The most common symptoms include: frequent lung infections; persistent coughing; difficulty gaining weight; poor growth; salty-tasting skin; enlarged liver or spleen; constipation/diarrhea; infertility; repeated sinus infections and nasal polyps. Treatment usually consists of daily airway clearance techniques combined with physical activity and medication to help treat any underlying infections or inflammation caused by CF. In some cases surgery may also be necessary to remove excess mucus from blocked passages or correct structural abnormalities within the lungs or gastrointestinal tract. Although there is no cure for Cystic Fibrosis, many individuals lead healthy lives with proper treatment and care management strategies such as daily airway clearance techniques, regular exercise programs , good nutrition , medications that reduce inflammation , antibiotics used to fight off bacterial infections , vitamin supplements and lifestyle modifications . With advances in research throughout recent years progress has been made towards better understanding how this condition works at both a molecular level as well as its pathophysiology . Additionally new treatments have emerged which work to improve quality of life for those suffering from this debilitating condition . Although it cannot yet be cured , living with Cystic Fibrosis does not mean living without hope ” hope for improved treatments & therapies , hope for increased understanding about what causes this condition & why it develops differently among so many people .