Although cystic fibrosis affects many parts of the body, the focus is often on the lungs because of the disease's effect on breathing.
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Autogenic drainage (AD) means “self-drainage” and uses different speeds of breathing to move mucus. To do it, your respiratory therapist can teach you how to control your breaths. You will learn how fast and deeply to breathe to fill certain parts of your lungs with air. AD can take some practice and is usually recommended for people age 8 and older.
Chest physical therapy (CPT or Chest PT) is an airway clearance technique (ACT) to drain the lungs, and may include percussion (clapping), vibration, deep breathing, and huffing or coughing.
Coughing is the most basic airway clearance technique (ACT). It can be an involuntary reflex or it can be controlled as a healthy, natural way for the lungs to get rid of mucus.
Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy gets air into the lungs and behind the mucus using extra (collateral) airways.
Bronchodilators may widen airways by helping the surrounding muscles relax. This could allow more air to travel through the airways, which may help other medications work more effectively.
High-frequency chest wall oscillation involves an inflatable vest that is attached to a machine. The machine mechanically performs chest physical therapy by vibrating at a high frequency. The vest vibrates the chest to loosen and thin
At this age, your child with cystic fibrosis is ready to transition from breast milk or formula to whole milk or a high-calorie supplement. Encourage independent eating. Create a consistent schedule and mealtime expectations.
Individuals with cystic fibrosis require more energy to breathe normally, fight lung infections and compensate for poor digestion. For these reasons, they need more calories than people without CF.
Your body needs vitamins to help it grow, function, and fight off infection. Try to incorporate foods rich in these vitamins and take a vitamin supplement, if necessary.