There is no cure for cystic fibrosis, however, cystic fibrosis may be treated to help alleviate the symptoms of the disease, to reduce the complications associated with CF, and to stop progression of the disease.
Early intervention is crucial to keeping cystic fibrosis in check. It is not a simple task to manage cystic fibrosis and it is all the more important that you get treated by a team of specialists to ensure mucus removal from the lungs, adequate nutrition to support the body as a whole, and prevention and control of infections that could cause frequent hospitalization and further damage the lungs. Cystic fibrosis treatment usually includes:
- Oral medicines
The main cystic fibrosis treatment is prescription medication, such as antibiotics to prevent lung infections, anti-inflammatories that lessen swelling of the lungs and airways, drugs that reduce mucus, and improve lung function.
- Inhaled medications
Inhaled medications, known as bronchodilators, help to keep the airways open by enabling the relaxation of the muscles around the bronchial tubes, and oral pancreatic enzymes that efficiently help in the absorption of nutrients by the digestive tract.
- Medications for specific gene mutations
In the case of patients who need cystic fibrosis treatment that is specific to gene mutations, physicians usually suggest a newer medication known as ivacaftor (Kalydeco), as it helps with lung function and weight reduction, while also allowing the reduction of salt amounts in sweat. This is an FDA approved drug prescribed for those who are 6 years and above of age, and the strength of the dose is dependent on age and weight. Doctors ensure that a series of tests are carried out before the medication is prescribed as well as during the course of medication to ensure that there are no major side effects that can impact other organs.
- Chest and vest therapy
These are two forms of physical therapy are prescribed as part of cystic fibrosis treatment to aid with mucus loosening so the lung functions are not affected. The chest physical therapy involves the use of natural techniques that can induce the mucus to loosen and be coughed out, while the vest therapy is used to achieve the same results but with the use of mechanical devices.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
This form of cystic fibrosis treatment is prescribed for the long-term in order to aid with both better lung function and improve overall health. This form of rehabilitation is done on an outpatient basis with the help of a physician. This involves physical exercise that improves your condition, nutritional counseling, breathing techniques to loosen the mucus for better breathing, and counseling and educational information support for undertaking cystic fibrosis better.
