Cystic Fibrosis - Causes - Better Medicine

What causes cystic fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease. It is caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene that triggers the mucus-producing glands of the body to make excessive amounts of abnormally thick and sticky mucus. A person must inherit two copies of the defective gene, one from each parent, in order to develop cystic fibrosis. Each parent of an affected individual carries one copy of the defective gene, but they do not usually show symptoms of the disease.

What are the risk factors for cystic fibrosis?

The major risk factor for cystic fibrosis is a family history of the disease. The defective gene is passed down through families, but you must inherit two copies of the defective cystic fibrosis gene, one from each of your parents, in order to develop the disease. The defective gene is more common in people of Northern and Central European ancestry.

Reducing your risk of cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis cannot be prevented. However, couples with a family history of cystic fibrosis who are planning on having a baby can elect to determine if either or both parents carry the defective cystic fibrosis gene (CFTR).

INTRODUCTION

What is cystic fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that affects the lungs, intestines, liver and pancreas. In cystic fibrosis, mucus-producing glands make excessive amounts of abnormally thick and sticky mucus, which clogs and obstructs the body’s digestive tract and air passages. The excessive mucus leads to serious problems with digestion and breathing, which often results in an early death. Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common chronic lung diseases in children and young adults (Source: NIH).... Read more about cystic fibrosis introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of cystic fibrosis?

Typically, symptoms of cystic fibrosis and its complications affect the respiratory system and the digestive system. However, the symptoms vary between individuals, and not all people will experience symptoms in both body systems.... Read more about cystic fibrosis symptoms

TREATMENTS

How is cystic fibrosis treated?

There is no cure for cystic fibrosis, but early diagnosis and consistent compliance with a treatment program can help to reduce symptoms and complications and extend life. Treatments for cystic fibrosis include a multifaceted approach that is tailored to your specific symptoms, the presence of coexisting diseases and complications, your age and medical history, and other factors.... Read more about cystic fibrosis treatments