What is cystic fibrosis?

The Facts:

o Cystic Fibrosis is one of the UK's most common, life-threatening inherited diseases.

o Cystic Fibrosis affects over 9,000 people in the UK.

o Cystic Fibrosis causes the internal organs to become clogged with this sticky mucus attracting infection and making it difficult to breathe and digest food.

o People with Cystic Fibrosis have to undergo a tough daily treatment regime including taking dozens of pills, inhaled and intravenous drugs and physiotherapy.

o During Cystic Fibrosis Week, five babies will be born with CF and sadly, two lives will be claimed by Cystic Fibrosis.

o Only half of those living with Cystic Fibrosis are likely to live past their late 30s.

o There is no cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

Symptoms:

Cystic Fibrosis causes the body to produce thick secretions that particularly affect the lungs and digestive tract. Symptoms of CF can include a troublesome cough, repeated chest infections and poor weight gain. A combination of physiotherapy and medication such as inhalers, nebulizers and antibiotics can help control lung infections and prevent lung damage.

Cystic Fibrosis affects the pancreas, which makes it difficult for people with CF to digest food. This can cause malnutrition, and so people with CF take enzymes to compensate for this problem.

To find out more about Cystic Fibrosis please visit : The CF Trust Website and please keep tuned to this blog to read some personal stories of people living with Cystic Fibrosis.