When diagnosing cystic fibrosis in infants and children, a sweat
test is preformed. This test involves collecting samples of a child's
sweat over an hour period. Afterwards the sample is examined to check the sweat
chlorine level. For accuracy, two sweat tests are routine. If the sweat
chlorine level is over 60, a diagnosis of CF is made. Additional standard test
for cystic fibrosis include:
Chest X-ray
Blood test
Stool test
Pulmonary functioning
test
Unfortunately, there is no cure for cystic fibrosis. Because CF sufferers
have a short life expectancy, a diagnosis is disheartening for many. However,
researchers and doctors across the country devote much time to developing
medications that will prolong life. The primary function of medication
available is to treat lung infections and control the body's production of
mucus. Antibiotics are effective for treating recurrent infections, whereas a
mucus-thinning drug prevents the thickening of mucus.
Preventing Cystic Fibrosis
Unlike birth defects, there is no way to prevent CF. A few parents
experience guilt due to thinking that the situation could have been prevented.
However, CF is the result of a defected gene, thus it is not related to
insufficient prenatal care, lack of vitamins, or exercise. Nonetheless, couples
who are planning on starting a family may request a genetic screening test to
determine whether they are carriers of the CF gene. Of course, both parties
being a carrier does not mean that their offspring will unquestionably develop
cystic fibrosis.