The gene affected by CF controls the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. People with cystic fibrosis experience a build-up of thick sticky mucus in the lungs, digestive system and other organs, causing a wide range of challenging symptoms affecting the entire body. Read on to find out how CF is diagnosed, how it's treated, how it affects the body and what causes it.
How is cystic fibrosis diagnosed?
Cystic fibrosis can be diagnosed during newborn screening, which is carried out as part of the heel-prick test that all babies in the UK receive, and positive results are followed up using a sweat test. If someone has a history of CF in their family, a partner with CF, or a child with the condition, they may choose to get carrier testing to see if they carry the faulty gene that can cause it, which only requires a simple mouthwash or blood test.
There are also ways to test for CF during pregnancy, which carry some risks and are only usually carried out in pregnancies with a high chance of cystic fibrosis. Find out more about how cystic fibrosis is diagnosed through newborn screening, carrier testing and antenatal testing, and how the condition is diagnosed in adults.
How is cystic fibrosis treated?
It is vital that people with CF receive appropriate treatments to enable them to live longer, healthier lives. That treatment can take many different forms! Find out how medication, physiotherapy, nutrition and exercise all play their part. We also have information about transplants and specialist care.
How cystic fibrosis affects the body
Cystic fibrosis causes the body to produce thick mucus, which can have a wide range of effects. Everyone with CF will have a slightly different variety and severity of symptoms. Take a look at our interactive body to find out more and explore how CF affects the lungs and digestive system, and about the other complications it can cause.
What are the causes of cystic fibrosis?
People have CF because they have inherited a faulty gene from both of their parents. Find out more about the CF gene, genotypes and the different mutations that people with CF have.