Cystic Fibrosis Symptoms & Signs

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that can cause severe lung damage and nutritional deficiencies. The genes that cause cystic fibrosis alter the way salt moves in and out of the body's cells. The symptoms of cystic fibrosis vary in severity depending on the patient. Treatment for cystic fibrosis is aimed at relieving symptoms since there is no cure.

Lungs

• The lungs of a cystic fibrosis patient will have a thick mucus secretion. Coughing and wheezing are also common.

Bowels

• Patients may experience greasy stools with an unpleasant odor. Bowels may also become blocked. Newborn's stools may also be bulky.

Digits

• The fingers and toes will be enlarged and rounded. This symptom is called clubbing. While clubbing is a symptom of cystic fibrosis, it can also be a symptom of heart disease or other lung disorders.

Growth

• Newborns with cystic fibrosis may fail to grow; older children will have delayed growth.

Warnings

• Patients with cystic fibrosis need to be under a doctor's care. The frequent respiratory infections associated with the disease must be treated.