Five symptoms of cystic fibrosis (CF) include recurring chest infections, difficulty putting on weight, frequent wet-sounding coughs, diarrhea, and occasional wheezing and shortness of breath.
Here's a breakdown of each symptom:
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Recurring Chest Infections: People with CF produce thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and airways. This mucus provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, leading to frequent and persistent lung infections.
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Difficulty Putting on Weight: The thick mucus in CF also affects the pancreas, an organ responsible for producing enzymes needed for digestion. When these enzymes are blocked, the body struggles to absorb nutrients from food, leading to poor weight gain, even with a normal diet.
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Frequent, Wet-Sounding Coughs: The buildup of mucus in the lungs triggers a persistent cough, often described as "wet" sounding because of the presence of mucus. This cough is the body's attempt to clear the airways.
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Diarrhea: Malabsorption of nutrients due to pancreatic insufficiency can lead to frequent, loose stools or diarrhea. This occurs because fats and other nutrients are not properly digested and absorbed in the intestines.
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Occasional Wheezing and Shortness of Breath: The obstructed airways due to thick mucus can cause wheezing, a whistling sound during breathing. Over time, lung damage can lead to shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.
