Treating Cystic Fibrosis

Treatment of CF consists of many different antibiotics taken on a daily routine, either inhaled, given as tablets or liquids, or taken intravenously. Enzymes are provided to digest food, plus a very expensive high fat and high calorie diet has to be strictly adhered to. Ventolin often needs to be taken to help make breathing easier and various other medicines are also used to help with tummy pains. Chest physiotherapy is also applied two to four times a day.

As a last resort, the Heart and Lung transplant teams are always available if the patient is considered suitable and in need of the operation. Frequent long spells in hospital due to respiratory difficulties are unfortunately common for a person with Cystic Fibrosis.