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Cystic fibrosis has been around since medieval times. Infants in the middle ages who had "salty" skin were considered bewitched because they normally died during infancy. The disease is sometimes fatal, inherited, chronic, and progressive. There is no known cure for this genetic disease. Cystic fibrosis normally affects the digestive and respiratory organs of the body. Thick mucus collects in the passageways and lungs in the respiratory system and blocks the ducts that allow digestive enzymes to reach the small intestine. Children and adults are normally the ones affected by cystic fibrosis. Sweat glands are affected and most of the time the reproductive system is also affected. Cystic fibrosis is a disease that is inherited when both parents are the carrier of a recessive gene. The CFTR gene is a recessive gene caused by mutations in that gene. The lungs can develop bleeding from the repeated infections and a patient may also have a lung collapse. A lung collapse happens when air leaks out of the lung's outer layer. Respiratory failure is a concern for cystic fibrosis patients. Lung complications may also cause heart failure in the lower right chamber of the heart. The severity and frequency of lung infections can be fatal in some cystic fibrosis patients. Another major complication caused by cystic fibrosis is nutritional deficiencies. The disease will make some patients prone to diarrhea. The thick mucus caused by cystic fibrosis can block the pancreas ducts and prevent the body from getting the enzymes that digest fats and proteins. The mucus also prevents the body from absorbing the fat-soluble vitamins that are essential for the body. Treatment options vary according to each individual and the severity of the symptoms. The most common areas affected by cystic fibrosis are the respiratory and digestive systems. Symptoms also vary for each individual with cystic fibrosis. Symptoms can include too much salt in sweat. This will cause an upset in the balance of minerals in the blood. A disturbance in the balance of minerals can cause heart arrhythmia problems and shock can be the result. It is important you plan for your child's future. Start a college fund and encourage them to make plans of their own. You can help your child cope with their disease by talking openly with them and allowing them to express their fear and embarrassment. Teenagers are especially vulnerable to being self-conscious about their difference. No matter how normal you want them to feel, they will still know they are different. Teenagers have a tough time explaining chest therapy, taking a handful of pills before they eat a meal, and the cough that loosens mucus. Encourage them to explain their disease to their circle of friends and explain why they have the cough and other symptoms of cystic fibrosis. Complications can occur in the intestinal tract also. A cystic fibrosis patient may experience intense stomach pain, excessive gas, bloating, and diarrhea or bowel obstruction. Other serious complications are rectal prolapse. That occurs when the patient has chronic diarrhea or a bowel obstruction. Gall bladder disease, pancreatic inflammation, liver and diabetes may also be severe complications of this incurable disease. Staying as healthy and fit as possible is one of the best treatments you do for yourself.
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