Research says that the CFTR protein also affects the body in other ways. This may help explain other symptoms and complications of CF.
More …show more content…
However, they can pass the faulty CFTR gene to their children.
The image below shows how two parents who are both CF carriers can pass the faulty CFTR gene to their children. Cystic fibrosis affects both males and females and people from all racial and ethnic groups. However, the disease is most common among Caucasians of Northern European …show more content…
They're related to how CF affects the respiratory, digestive, or reproductive systems of the body. In the respiratory system sticky mucus builds up in their airways. This buildup of mucus makes it easier for bacteria to grow and cause infections. Infections can block the airways and cause frequent coughing that brings up thick spit or mucus that is sometimes bloody.
People who have CF tend to have lung infections caused by unusual germs that don't respond to standard antibiotics. Lung infections caused by bacteria called mucoid pseudomonas are much more common in people who have CF than in those who don't. An infection caused by these bacteria may be a sign of CF.
People who have CF have frequent bouts of sinusitis, an infection of the sinuses. The sinuses are hollow air spaces around the eyes, nose, and forehead. Frequent bouts of bronchitis and pneumonia also can occur. These infections can cause long-term lung damage.
In the digestive system mucus can block tubes, or ducts, in your pancreas. These blockages prevent enzymes from reaching your