Lung Diseases and Care

Cystic fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis is a life-threatening disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs and digestive system. An inherited condition, cystic fibrosis affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices. These secreted fluids are normally thin and slippery. But in cystic fibrosis, a defective gene causes the secretions to become thick and sticky. Instead of acting as a lubricant, the secretions plug up tubes, ducts and passageways, especially in the lungs and pancreas.