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Chronic inflammation in people with cystic fibrosis causes damage to lung tissue that can eventually lead to respiratory failure. Researchers are trying to discover ways to dampen the exaggerated immune response that causes chronic inflammation without affecting the body's natural defenses against infection.

People with cystic fibrosis have thick, sticky mucus that blocks passages in their lungs, making it difficult for them to breathe and predisposing them to infections. New drugs are under development that will help break up and hydrate mucus in the lungs to make it easier to clear. 

People with cystic fibrosis can experience complications in the pancreas, liver, and intestines that can lead to malnutrition, constipation, liver disease, and other digestive issues — including abdominal pain and poor appetite. Learn about research underway to address digestive system issues in CF.

Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) is a unique type of diabetes that is common in people with CF. Learn about research underway to improve CFRD diagnosis and treatment.

Procedural anxiety is the fear or worry related to any medical procedure that can interfere with your ability to receive appropriate medical care. You can partner with your cystic fibrosis care team to find ways to manage this common anxiety.

Substance misuse is the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or over-the-counter or prescription medications in a way that they are not meant to be used. Over time, substance misuse can become an unhealthy way to respond to stress and anxiety, particularly when managing a chronic illness like cystic fibrosis.

Since cystic fibrosis is a complex disease, it requires a team approach with you or your child at the center. Your CF care team includes a group of CF health care professionals who partner with you to provide specialized, comprehensive CF care.

Teams of dedicated health care professionals in a nationwide network of more than 130 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-accredited care centers partner with people with CF and their families to provide expert care and specialized disease management.

Mucus thinners, such as mucolytics, are inhaled medications that help thin the mucus in the airways so you can cough it out of your lungs more easily. The three main types of mucus thinners are hypertonic saline, mannitol (Bronchitol^®), and dornase alfa (Pulmozyme^®).

Surgery and recovery involves more than replacing your lungs. The process also includes making the physical and emotional adjustment to life with your new lungs.