Many illnesses that are present in the world today can be unavoidable for some, because of their inherited qualities. Though there are various types, one of the most common and deadly is Cystic Fibrosis.
Cystic Fibrosis, or CF, causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs, digestive tract, and sometimes other organs within the body. The buildup is created because of a defective inherited gene, and the mucus collects in the lung passages and in an organ that helps to break down food, the pancreas.
Because the disease is brought on by heredity, unfortunately, many do not have a chance in avoiding it and it is inborn. There are many Americans that carry the gene that is responsible for CF but do not realize it because they do not experience symptoms, themselves.
Individuals that suffer from the disease must inherit two defective Cystic Fibrosis genes, one from each parent. It has been estimated that one in every twenty-nine Americans of Northern or Central European descent have this specific gene that could potentially cause the disorder in future children.
Most individuals that suffer from CF are diagnosed by the age of two, because the symptoms are present in infancy; however, there are some that may not be diagnosed until the age of eighteen because their condition is milder. It can sometimes be difficult to determine the disease in infants, especially because there are so many different degrees of seriousness and more than a thousand various mutations of the gene that causes Cystic Fibrosis.
Some tell-tale signs may be delayed growth, a lack of bowel movement in the first day or two after birth, salty-tasting skin, and an inability to gain weight during childhood. Other symptoms that relate specifically to the disease are belly pain, nausea, bloating, coughing or increased sinus blockage, fatigue, and recurring episodes of the sickness pneumonia.
Probably the best and most effective way to determine whether or not an infant or child suffers from the disease is to have a blood test performed. If any of these symptoms are manifested at any time within the first few years of birth, it is best to take the child into a physician for a health evaluation or testing.
Other tests that may be used to diagnose the condition are a fecal fat test, secretin stimulation test, or a CT scan. Having a child that suffers from the aforementioned symptoms can be hard for adults, as well, especially when they are unsure about what is wrong.
Unfortunately, there really is no way to prevent Cystic Fibrosis, seeing that it is inherited from the parents and nothing can really be done about their genetic makeup. Those that are worried that they may be carriers of the gene or have a family history of CF may want to be screened or tested.
There is usually around a sixty to ninety percent success rate, depending on the type of screening method that is used. Children that do suffer from CF should be able to live a pretty normal childhood, including going to school and participating in sports and physical activity.
The sooner the disease is diagnosed, the sooner your physician will be able to create a treatment plan. This usually means a higher life expectancy and an easier time overall for your child.
It is usually vital to maintain a good schedule of monitoring with your doctor to make sure that the individual affected is experiencing somewhat proper functioning of the lungs and digestive tract. There are a number of Cystic Fibrosis focused clinics where you can possibly receive treatment; those that are interested in these types of medical establishments should contact their doctor or insurance company.
As far as medications go, many prescribe antibiotics to prevent and treat infections, medications that are inhaled and open airways, vaccines, oxygen therapy, and sometimes a lung transplant, if necessary and available. Parents can possibly help reduce the amount of symptoms that their child experiences by making small lifestyle changes.
These include avoiding dust, mildew, smoke, and cleaning fumes within the home, performing chest percussions/postural drainage, making sure the child gets enough exercise, and drinking enough fluids. Unfortunately, this disease can weaken the lungs and body so much that there is usually not a very long life expectancy for those that suffer with from the disease.
Children may be able to live normal lives, but as they age and enter into adulthood conditions usually worsen. As they get older, the lungs have to work harder to provide the body with necessary oxygen, and this can weaken and wear out this organ and the airways.
Often, individuals become disabled and may eventually die due to lung complications. The life expectancy for someone suffering from Cystic Fibrosis is around thirty-five years, but this number can be larger or smaller depending upon the severity and the lung health.
Individuals who suffer or parents who have children with CF can find help and assistance through support groups. Though this disease does not provide a positive prognosis, patients can still live full lives.
Tommy Greene has worked in surgical equipment sales for the past 15 years. He has great advice and information on Diathermy units.
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