Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis
By Lori Alma, About.com Guide to Cystic Fibrosis
There is no cure for cystic fibrosis. The goals of treatment are to prolong life expectancy and improve the quality of life for people with the disease. This is done by controlling symptoms and preventing complications.
- Therapies for Improving Lung Function
- Periodic Testing: Preventing Complications of Cystic Fibrosis
- Alternative Treatment Options
Treatment Basics
Treatment plans for people with cystic fibrosis vary because they are customized to meet the unique needs of each individual, but the basic foundation of controlling symptoms and preventing complications applies to everyone who is being treated for cystic fibrosis.
- Overview of Cystic Fibrosis Treatment
- Recently Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis? Where to Turn for Treatment
- How Breathing Works
Medications Used to Treat Cystic Fibrosis
Medications are an essential part of daily life for people with cystic fibrosis. Some are nhaled directly into the lungs, some are taken by mouth, and others must be taken intravenously.
- The Most Commonly Prescribed Medications for Cystic Fibrosis
- Bronchodilators
- Steroids and Other Anti-Inflammatory Medications
- Azithromycin: A Drug Profile
- Inhaled Hypertonic Saline - A Treatment Discovered in the Ocean
- Pulmozyme: A Drug Profile
- Tobi: A Drug Profile
- How to Use a Nebulizer
Nutrition and Diet
Cystic fibrosis interferes with the body's ability to absorb nutrients. People with cystic fibrosis must take dietary supplements and follow special nutrition guidelines to avoid becoming dangerously malnourished -- even kids.
- Causes and Treatment of Malnutrition in People with Cystic Fibrosis
- Getting Your Child to Eat
- What You Need to Know About Pancreatic Enzyme Replacements
- Vitamin A in the Cystic Fibrosis Diet
- Vitamin D in the Cystic Fibrosis Diet
- Vitamin E in the Cystic Fibrosis Diet
- Vitamin K in the Cystic Fibrosis Diet
- Why Are Fat Soluble Vitamins Important?
- When is it Time to Consider Tube Feedings?
Therapies for Improving Lung Function
In addition to medication and nutrition, cystic fibrosis treatment includes a variety of therapies that focus on bettering how well the lungs work.
- Chest Physiotherapy in Young Children: A Step-by-Step Pictorial
- The Benefits of Exercise in Cystic Fibrosis Treatment
- The Single Most Important Thing You Can Do to Improve Lung Function
- The Airway Clearance Toolbox
- Lung Transplant - Hope For Those with Failing Lungs
- Airway Clearance Options
Periodic Testing: Preventing Complications of Cystic Fibrosis
It's important for people with cystic fibrosis to stay ahead of their disease and make sure treatment is working as it should. Complications of cystic fibrosis can sneak up, even when everything seems to be under control.
Alternative Treatment Options
Some people living with cystic fibrosis choose to include alternative treatment options in their daily routine, with their doctor's approval.
