Staying Healthy

Twin boys playing video gameAccording to the CF Foundation, there are many things you can do to prevent illness and keep your lungs healthy.

Most people with cystic fibrosis can lead active lives with routine therapies and regular visits to a Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-accredited care center.

Knowing your CF is important to staying healthy. The staff at our center partner with you to develop individual treatment plans. These plans typically include high-calorie, high-fat diets, therapies to loosen the clogged mucus from the airways, and mucus-thinning drugs and antibiotics when needed.

By following a treatment plan developed your CF team, you can slow down the progression of the disease. A healthier body is better able to deal with bacteria and chronic lung infection.

Avoiding the Spread of Germs

Cystic fibrosis puts the airways at risk for lung infections. There are, however, effective ways to lessen the risk. One way is to limit contact with known germ sources.

Although germs are everywhere and cannot be avoided, one of the best ways to keep from catching or spreading germs is through effective hand-washing, whether with soap and water or alcohol-based hand gels.

Everyone with CF should avoid unnecessary contact with people who have a cold or any other contagious illness, and should cough and sneeze into a tissue.

Getting Your Flu Shot - It's a Family Thing!

Flu season, which begins in August and lasts throughout the winter, is the time of year that the influenza virus is easiest to catch. The flu is considered highly contagious, because it can spread by direct contact, coughing, sneezing, and when an infected person touches a surface that others then use, like door knobs and railings.

People with lung infections, including people with CF, can develop more serious cases of the flu, so it is important for you to get a flu shot to be immunized against the most prevalent strains.

Our care center offers the flu shot to all patients with CF beginning in August every year.

Everyone with CF and members of their households who are at least 6 months old need to be vaccinated for both viruses.

Staying Hydrated During the Summer

When summer comes, we want to work with you to make sure you have a healthy and happy summer. Here are some tips on staying healthy in the hot months!

  • HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE - Remember, people with CF can lose up to 5 times more salt in their sweat than someone without CF. Remember to drink even when you are not thirsty, especially during outdoor exercise. Drink before, during and after exercise. Sports drinks with added salt and carbohydrates are great at this time of year. Children are more susceptible to dehydration to make sure the little ones drink extra!
  • Caffeine does NOT count as part of the total ounces of liquid you drink in a day. This includes all caffeinated sodas, coffees and tea.
  • Infants dehydrate more quickly than young children and adults so keep your baby well hydrated and in cool clothing.
  • EAT MORE SALT!! - Examples of foods to add during the summer are: pretzels, salted nurs and seeds.
  • Know the signs of dehydration and hypoatremia (low sodium levels in your blood). These might include nausea, vomitting, headaches, muscle weakness and cramping. Call your CF team with any concerns.
  • Medications - Keep your medications cool while out and about. Some medications require refrigeration so make sure you know which of your meds need to be in the fridge. Others, like enzymes, should be kept at room temperature. Keep a cooler handy if you are going out and plan to bring your enzymes or other medications..
  • Wear your sunscreen!! SPF should be 30.

The Dangers Of Secondhand Smoke!

Click here to learn more about the risks associated with exposure to second hand smoke.