There have been many advances in CF treatment.
Antibiotics and Anti-inflammatories are used in treat for some with cystic fibrosis.
Antibiotics are frequently needed to treat bacteria that grow in the mucus. These can be given in one of three ways:
- Orally or by mouth – this is the easiest and cheapest route.
- By inhalation – this is more expensive but very effective.
- Intravenously (IV) – this is usually reserved for those who are sicker.
Anti-inflammatory medications have also been found to be helpful in CF. Two medications are currently in use, azithromycin (an antibiotic that’s used as an anti-inflammatory agent in CF), and ibuprofen.
Managing cystic fibrosis is a must!
Regular check-ups with your doctor are needed as patients with CF will require constant monitoring and health management to control symptoms and prevent complications.
Your doctor may request that you receive some other tests depending on your condition. Common tests include blood tests, bone mineral density tests, glucose monitoring, pancreas functionality test, and respiratory cultures. Ultrasounds, chest CTs or X-rays, colonoscopy and a lung biopsy may be needed in some situations.
In addition to doctor visits, lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms. Practicing good hygiene and receiving all recommended vaccines can prevent patients with CF from getting an infection which in turn could lead to more severe complications. To maintain a healthy weight many patients with CF follow healthy, high-calorie, high-sodium diets. Physical activity is also encouraged to help improve and maintain lung function.
Most importantly all patients with CF need to continue treatments, including medicines, supplements, and daily airway clearance techniques as directed by their physicians. Your physician should also be alerted immediately to any complications so that they can provide supplemental medication to help the immune system fight off infection as quickly as possible.”
American Heart Association (https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/cystic-fibrosis/treating-and-managing)