Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disease of the mucus and
sweat glands. It affects mainly the lungs and pancreas, but it can also affect
other parts of the body including the liver, nose and sinuses and reproductive
organs. Normally, cells in these parts of the body make mucus and other
secretions. Sufferers with cystic fibrosis have cells that do not function
correctly, making mucus and secretions thicker than normal.
The symptoms of cystic fibrosis usually develop within the
first year of life, but may not appear until later childhood. The severity of
symptoms can vary and include:
- persistent cough which
produces a lot of sputum
- recurring chest
infections
- repeated infections and
inflammation can damage the lungs and lead to poor lung function
- shortness of breath and
breathing difficulties
- wheezing