7 Major Symptoms Of Cystic Fibrosis

As children, we inherit many varied traits from our parents, be it appearance, behavior patterns, values and so on.

Unfortunately though, there is another thing that we can inherit from our parents and ancestors - diseases!

Yes, there are a number of genetic disorders that affect humans. Genetic disorders are conditions where diseases are passed on through heredity, from the parents to their children.

In some cases, genetic disorders may also be caused due to abnormalities in the DNA structure of a human being.

Hemophilia, hungtington's disease, down syndrome, sickle cell anemia, etc, are some of the most common genetic disorders.

Cystic Fibrosis is also one of the most seen genetic disorder which normally affects children between the ages of 2-18. However, it can develop in adults too.

Cystic Fibrosis is a condition where the mucus glands, sweat glands and digestive juices are affected.

The fluids in the affected areas of the body turn thick and sticky, coming in the way of the body's health and normal functions.

In extreme cases, cystic fibrosis may cause acute lung infections and the patient may even need a lung transplant.

Read more about some of the main symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis, here.

1. Chronic Cough

The affected person may suffer from chronic coug which may last for minutes to hours, causing chest pain, congestion and fatigue.

2. Gastro-intestinal Troubles

The person suffering from cystic fibrosis may experience gastro-intestinal ailments like diarrhea, acute constipation, nausea, fat deposits in stools, etc.

3. Developmental Problems

If children are affected with cystic fibrosis, they may experience developmental problems like learning disabilities, delay in development and delayed onset of puberty.

4. Respiratory Ailments

People affected with Cystic Fibrosis can experience chronic respiratory ailments like wheezing, shortness of breath, sinusitis, respiratory infections, etc.

5. Male Infertility

In some cases, males affected with cystic fibrosis can have a decreased sperm count or erectile dysfunction, leading to infertility.

6. Body Pain

The other common symptom seen in cystic fibrosis patients is extreme body pain, especially in the abdominal and chest areas, due to the thickening of mucous.

7. Weight Loss

Many of the patients suffering from cystic fibrosis experience loss of appetite and fatigue, which may eventually lead to extreme weight loss and a weakened immunity.