What is the Best Treatment for Cystic Fibrosis?

Best Treatments for Cystic Fibrosis: A Complete Guide

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in different parts of the body. This mucus can clog and harm organs. While it's often thought of as a lung disease, cystic fibrosis can also affect the liver, nose and sinuses, intestines, and reproductive organs.

The thick mucus can block tubes in the pancreas that help release digestive enzymes, making it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients from food. Learning about the diagnosis and treatment options for cystic fibrosis is important for managing the condition.

Keep reading to understand how cystic fibrosis is diagnosed, what treatments are available, and how people suffering from this disease can live better and longer lives.

How is Cystic Fibrosis Diagnosed for Older Children and Adults?

Cystic fibrosis testing may be recommended if a person was not screened at birth and has signs of the disease. Such diagnostic tests used may include:

• Sweat test
• Genetic testing

What are the best treatment options for cystic fibrosis?

There are several ways of treating cystic fibrosis. Some of the most effective options include

1.  Medicines

• CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator) Modulators: These medicines help fix the protein problem caused by CF (cystic fibrosis) gene mutations. They can improve lung function, digestion, and other symptoms for people with certain genetic types.
• Antibiotics: Used to treat and prevent lung infections.
• Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Help reduce swelling in the airways.
• Mucus Thinners(like hypertonic saline): Make it easier to cough up mucus.
• Bronchodilators: Breathed in through inhalers or nebulisers to relax the muscles around the airways and help with breathing.
• Pancreatic Enzymes: Taken with meals to help the body absorb nutrients.
• Stool Softeners: Used to prevent constipation and bowel blockages.
• Acid Reducers: Help enzyme pills work better.
• Other Specific Medicines: May be needed if someone develops CF-related diabetes or liver problems.

2.  Airway Clearance Techniques

People with cystic fibrosis (CF) often use airway clearance techniques to help remove the thick mucus from their lungs. Some common techniques include:

• Chest Clapping: A carer or therapist gently taps the chest and back using cupped hands to loosen mucus.
• Special Breathing or Coughing Exercises: The exercises help move mucus out of the lungs.
• Mechanical Tools:
• A vibrating vest that gently shakes the chest to loosen mucus.
• Devices you blow into create vibrations or pressure to help clear mucus.
• Exercise: Physical activity, like running or biking, can also help loosen mucus and improve lung function.

3.  Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Doctors may recommend a long-term program called pulmonary rehab to help improve breathing and overall health. This program usually includes:

• Exercise to build strength and improve lung function
• Breathing exercises to help clear mucus
• Advice on healthy eating
• Mental health support and stress management
• Education about CF and how to manage it

4.  Other Treatments and Surgery

Some people with CF may need extra treatments or surgery for specific problems, such as:

• Nasal and Sinus Surgery: To remove growths (polyps) or clear blocked sinuses.
• Oxygen Therapy: If blood oxygen levels are low, use oxygen through a mask or a nose tube. Portable tanks help you stay active.
• Non-invasive Ventilation (NIV): A special mask helps push air into the lungs during sleep to make breathing easier. It's often used with oxygen therapy.
• Feeding Tubes: If you're not getting enough nutrition, a feeding tube can provide extra calories. It may be placed through the nose or directly into the stomach.
• Bowel Surgery: If the intestines get blocked, surgery may be needed to fix the problem.
• Lung Transplant: If CF severely damages the lungs and other treatments no longer work, a lung transplant may be considered. Both lungs are usually replaced.
• Liver Transplant: For serious liver problems caused by CF, such as cirrhosis, a liver transplant may be needed. In some cases, it’s done along with a lung or pancreas transplant.

Can Cystic Fibrosis Be Fully Cured?

No, there is no cure for cystic fibrosis. However, with the help of a CF healthcare team and regular treatment, people suffering from this disease can manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and live longer.

Cystic fibrosis is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing care, but with proper treatment and support, many individuals can live with better health. Starting treatment early, sticking to a care routine, and making healthy daily choices can help manage symptoms.

Having dependable health insurance is also key to accessing the right medications, therapies, and specialist care. At Star Health, we offer coverage for various health conditions under our tailored insurance plans. We also provide hassle-free claim settlements with reduced turnaround time across over 14,000 network hospitals in India.