Recognizing Symptoms
Cystic fibrosis affects each person differently. Symptoms can vary with age, the organs affected, and the severity of the condition.
Possible signs and symptoms include:
- A persistent cough, sometimes producing thick mucus
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Frequent lung infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia
- Recurrent sinus problems or nasal polyps
- Digestive difficulties, including constipation or frequent, greasy stools
- Difficulty gaining weight or growing as expected, despite a good appetite
- Salty-tasting skin
Not everyone experiences all these symptoms, and some symptoms may change over time.
Paying Attention to Changes
People living with CF often become familiar with their usual symptoms and treatment routines. Changes from their normal pattern can be important.
Contact their CF care team promptly if they experience worsening cough, increased mucus, changes in mucus color, increased breathlessness, fever, reduced appetite, or unexplained weight loss.
Sudden severe breathing difficulty, confusion, bluish lips or skin, or coughing up a large amount of blood requires emergency medical attention. Call 911 for a life-threatening emergency.
Understanding Daily Challenges
CF management can involve daily airway-clearance treatments, medications, nutritional needs, and frequent healthcare appointments. These routines can take considerable time and energy, even when someone appears well.
Infection prevention is especially important. Certain germs can cause serious illness in people with CF, and some can spread between people with the condition. Follow the person's care team's guidance about hygiene, infection prevention, and contact with others who have CF.
Remember that a person's appearance does not tell the whole story. Someone can look healthy while managing substantial symptoms and treatment responsibilities.
