Respiratory treatments
Treatment of cystic fibrosis converges mainly to lung problems, as the disease itself and the associated mortality are mainly attributed to infection and malfunction of the lungs. The goal of pulmonary treatments is to detach and remove the mucus which obstructs the respiratory tract, in order to obtain good lung function. Several methods are used. Frequent intake of antibiotics helps to fight and prevent lung infections. Special aerosol solutions are used to loosen the mucus in the lungs and make it more fluid. In addition, postural drainage with “clapping”, a form of physiotherapy where the individual is placed in different positions chosen according to the area to be drained in order to carry out breaks on the lobes of the lungs, helps to unclog the airways. This method often makes it possible to evacuate a large quantity of mucus. Other drainage techniques, which do not involve the assistance of a third person, ensure a greater autonomy of the patient. These include “huffing” and autogenous drainage. In very severe cases, the lungs become so slashed as a result of repeated infections that the only solution remains the transplation.
Gastrointestinal treatments
Gastrointestinal disorders of cystic fibrosis occur in approximately 85% of people with poor digestion and malabsorption of fat, protein and carbohydrates. Before treatment, an affected person could consume twice the amount of food taken by a normal person. People with cystic fibrosis usually have to take special pancreatic enzyme supplements to facilitate digestion, they must follow a special diet rich in calories and protein, and supplement their diet with vitamin supplements containing vitamins E and sometimes Vitamins K. Pancreatic enzymes taken orally palliate most of the deficits caused by the disease. They help the body absorb nutrients and reduce the amount and volume of stools, the amount of gas that accumulates abdominal pain and distension. In addition, sufferers are forced to add salt to their diet to replace the large amount lost in their sweat.
