WHAT IS CYSTIC FIBROSIS?

Some facts, figures and numbers. The background of the disease itself.

(words in this color are my interjections) 

graphic made by @curlycocreations on instagram

WHAT IS CF?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time.

In people with CF, a defective gene causes a thick, sticky buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. In the lungs, the mucus clogs the airways and traps bacteria leading to infections, extensive lung damage, and eventually, respiratory failure. In the pancreas, the mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes that allow the body to break down food and absorb vital nutrients.

People with cystic fibrosis are at greater risk of getting lung infections because thick, sticky mucus builds up in their lungs, allowing germs to thrive and multiply. Lung infections, caused mostly by bacteria, are a serious and chronic problem for many people living with the disease. Minimizing contact with germs is a top concern for people with CF.

SYMPTOMS OF CF

People with CF can have a variety of symptoms, including:

• Very salty-tasting skin << THIS SYMPTOM SAVED MY LIFE, tune in tomorrow to hear my birth story on @trialsandmiles podcast

• Persistent coughing, at times with phlegm 
• Frequent lung infections including pneumonia or bronchitis
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Poor growth or weight gain in spite of a good appetite
• Frequent greasy, bulky stools or difficulty with bowel movements << i didn't realize going to the bathroom was not a strenuous, sweat inducing activity for everyone
• Male infertility

RISK FACTORS

·      Family history. Because cystic fibrosis is an inherited disorder, it runs in families.

·      Race. Although cystic fibrosis occurs in all races, it is most common in white people of Northern European ancestry.

          Below are my genetics. Basically I was destined (doomed 😉) for CF. 

I did the DNA test from Ancestry.com. It was AWESOME. They are always running sales too. 

HOW DO I GET CF?

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease. People with CF have inherited two copies of the defective CF gene -- one copy from each parent. Both parents must have at least one copy of the defective gene.

REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM COMPLICATIONS

Almost all men with cystic fibrosis are infertile because the tube that connects the testes and prostate gland (vas deferens) is either blocked with mucus or missing entirely. Certain fertility treatments and surgical procedures sometimes make it possible for men with cystic fibrosis to become biological fathers.

Although women with cystic fibrosis may be less fertile than other women, it's possible for them to conceive and to have successful pregnancies. Still, pregnancy can worsen the signs and symptoms of cystic fibrosis, so be sure to discuss the possible risks with your doctor.  There have not been enough women with CF to get pregnant to understand all the complications that can occur or to develop a trend of what a woman might experience during pregnancy. (This exciting new stage of life has been updated since more CF women are getting old enough to have babies. Much of this is due to the high quality medications and medical advancements that have occurred.)

psst..miracles do exist 

Despite all this -- I promise, we can (and DO) have great, fulfilling lives!

Did you see we launched the Black Conquer All apparel today? ;)

Xx, M

All data is factual and found on May 1, 2018 from the CFF.org website and Mayoclinic.org