Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disorder passed through a recessive gene. Often this condition is first diagnosed when the patient is a child by using a sweat test. Cystic Fibrosis affects cells that produce mucus, sweat, and digestive juices, causing these fluids to become thick and sticky. This causes a cough, repeated lung infections, the inability to gain weight (developmental issues), and fatty stools. Patients can take a mucus thinner medication which helps temporarily thin the mucus in their airways, allowing them to cough it out of their lungs more easily. Another treatment is using vest therapy. The vibration of the vest against the chest wall helps loosen mucus, creating airflow that will move the mucus away from the airway walls. The patient must then cough periodically during and after the treatment to clear the fluid.
