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The treatment of cystic fibrosis is one that has been challenging various foundations for over 50 years. It has since become even more of a challenge once cystic fibrosis was determined to be a defective gene known as Chromosome 7. This chromosome is one of 23 pair that every person receives from their parents. A parent can carry one of these pairs without ever having the disease, but it is when both parents are carrying it that it can be passed onto the child with about a 1 in four probability. As of right now, researchers around the world are looking into the potential o gene therapy early on in life as a means of either fixing or replacing this defective pair of chromosomes. Unfortunately, the concept of gene therapy is still relatively new and there are no treatments currently available for sufferers of cystic fibrosis. Another cystic fibrosis treatment option is to supply the missing or inadequate production of the protein that is affected by cystic fibrosis. Today, the only real recourse is through a custom tailored approach for each individual case which can include various antibiotics as well as specialized protein supplements which can make the patient of cystic fibrosis have an easier life. The drugs that can be prescribed along with other therapeutic techniques, are designed to help thin out the mucus in the body as well as increasing the body’s immune system and ability to prevent the infections caused by the mucus blockages. It used to be that cystic fibrosis was considered to be a fatal disease for all children, but thanks to the love and care offered through various organizations like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation which was established back in the 1950’s, a child who is born with cystic fibrosis can now go on to live a semi-normal life. While in the past, the patients with cystic fibrosis would almost always perish in early childhood, science and research is now able of extending their life well over 30 years. Through physical therapy, exercise as well as various medications, the patients who are most frequently attacked by lung related cystic fibrosis symptoms are able to stay healthy and active as well as prevent various reparatory infections before they have a chance to become fatal. There are a number of potential treatments which are designed to help evacuate the trapped and over-thickened mucus from the lungs and airway passages which in turn help to prevent respiratory tract infections. As compared to the lungs though, the digestive tract issues are more easily remedied through a healthy and well balanced diet as well as vitamin and nutrient supplements.
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