What is the conventional treatment of cystic fibrosis?
While there is no cure for CF, improvements in the management of respiratory disease and malnutrition now allow CF patients to survive into their early 30s and even 40s. Much of today’s medical care focuses on improved breathing through the use of inhaled bronchodilators as well as better antibiotics for management of chronic infections. In a few cases, single- and double-lung or heart-and-lung transplants have proved successful. Treatment for the lungs involves breathing exercises or techniques such as chest physical therapy to dislodge and remove the thick mucus. A device called a chest vest can help remove mucus via high frequency chest wall oscillations. Devices called OPEP, for oscillatory positive expiratory pressure, can help patients breathe by creating airflow vibrations that help break mucus loose from airway walls and generating pressure during exhalation to help keep the airways open. Treatment may also include nebulized (put into a form that can be inhaled) drugs such as s
