Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that affects the digestive system and lungs. A defective gene causes the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from breaking down food. It can also leads to life-threatening lung infections.

Symptoms

• Very salty-tasting skin;
• Persistent coughing, at times with phlegm;
• Frequent lung infections;
• Wheezing or shortness of breath;
• Poor growth/weight gain in spite of a good appetite; and
• Frequent greasy, bulky stools or difficulty in bowel movements.

Diagnosis
Dr. Jones may order one of the following tests:

• Sweat Test: This simple test measures the concentration of salt in a person’s sweat. The test is painless and is the best way to diagnose cystic fibrosis.
• Genetic Carrier Testing: This blood test detects carriers who could pass cystic fibrosis to their children. A child must inherit one copy of the defective gene from each parent to have cystic fibrosis.
• Newborn Screening: Newborns can benefit from early diagnosis and treatment. While newborn screening is not a definitive diagnostic test, it may lead to tests that can confirm a diagnosis.