Cystic Fibrosis: Treatment

Although as of yet there is no cure for cystic fibrosis (CF), new therapies are available that can extend life and improve the quality of life.

Treatment for CF is individualized, since no two patients are alike. Yet, many therapies including inhaled antibiotics and enzymes to replace those produced by the pancreas are available. Gene therapy (transplanting or replacing genes)- while not available yet-is at the forefront of research.

The only commonality among all the treatments is that the more active patients can be, the better their lungs function. Even if they are on oxygen or a night ventilator, people with CF should do mildly vigorous aerobic exercise. This may require supervised activity, during which oxygen saturation is measured and heart rate is monitored. Some patients may also need supplemental oxygen while exercising.

For those whose condition is not very severe, aerobic exercise such as swimming, running and biking is beneficial.

CF has a remarkably variable clinical course, depending on the severity of the genetic mutation, the types of infections acquired, and the organs other than the lungs that are affected. For all patients with CF, the median survival has risen steadily over the past four decades.

This information has been approved by Jerry Nick, MD (March, 2006).