Cystic fibrosis : fibrosis is a life-threatening disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs and digestive system.
An inherited condition, cystic fibrosis affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices. These secreted fluids are normally thin and slippery. But in cystic fibrosis, a defective gene causes the secretions to become thick and sticky. Instead of acting as a lubricant, the secretions plug up tubes, ducts and passageways, especially in the lungs and pancreas.
TREATMENT
• Antibiotics to treat and prevent lung infections
• Mucus-thinning drugs to help you cough up the mucus, which improves lung function
• Bronchodilators to help keep your airways open by relaxing the muscles around your bronchial tubes
• Oral pancreatic enzymes to help your digestive tract absorb nutrients