Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs. This makes breathing very difficult, especially during exercise or infection. CF affects approximately 30,000 children and adults in the UK alone.
CF is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene (CFTR). The CFTR protein helps regulate salt and water transport across cell membranes. Mutations in the CFTR gene prevent the protein from working properly, leading to problems with digestion, absorption of nutrients, and sweat production.
CF is a life-threatening condition that requires constant medical care. If you have CF, you should see a specialist at least once every year. Your doctor will check your lung function, blood pressure, and other vital signs. They'll also test your sputum (mucus) to look for bacteria.
The cause of cystic fibrosis is not known. However, research suggests that it may have been caused by a combination of genes inherited from both parents. Cystic fibrosis occurs in people who inherit two copies of the defective gene. One copy comes from each parent. People with only one copy of the defective gene do not develop cystic fibrosis.
There is no cure for cystic fibrosis. Treatment focuses on helping patients manage their symptoms and live as normal lives as possible.
Symptoms of cystic fibrosis vary depending on where in the body the problem occurs. In the lungs, people with cystic fibrosis often experience chronic cough, shortness of breath, and frequent lung infections. Digestive problems include diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and vomiting. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, skin rashes, and weight loss.
Treatment options for cystic fibrosis include medications, surgery, and airflow nutritional supplements. Medications help treat symptoms and prevent complications. Surgery removes excess mucus from the lungs and helps improve airflow. Supplements provide extra vitamins and minerals to replace those lost due to the disease.
The following can happen if someone is suffering from CF:
Bronchiectasis- Scarring of the airway.
Chronic infections.
Nasal polyps.
Hemoptysis- Coughing up blood.
Pneumothorax- Leaking of air from lungs.
Respiratory failure.
Acute exacerbations- Acute shortness of Breath. Decrease in weight and energy.
Nutritional deficiencies.
Intestinal obstruction.
Reduced fertility in men and women.
Osteoporosis- Thinning of the bones.
DIOS- Distal intestinal obstruction syndrome.
Electrolyte imbalances.
Dehydration.
Mental health issues.
Homeopathy and ayurveda claim to prevent or palliate CF.
In homeopathy dilutions like; Spongia Tosta, Calcarea Carb, Aspidosperma, Sanguinaria. Ayurveda remedies like; Curcumin, Echinacea, Giloy, Nagarmotha, Pippali, Ativisha, Karkataka Shringi, claims to have palliative effects.
Sources for ayurveda remedies- https://www.naturalayurvedictreatment.com/herbal-remedy-for-cystic-fibrosis/