Cystic Fibrosis got its name from the pancreas, not the lungs like most people would believe. The disease got its name after several deaths, in which the doctor was able to examine the pancreas. Naming it "fibrosis" refers to scarring that was evident in the pancreas.
Digestive problems play a major part of a CFers body. It also makes it that much more difficult to digest food, vitamins, fat, or any nutrients. Resulting in surgeries because of the mucus thag blocks the pancreas, reducing the production of insulin and preventing digestive enzymes. Problems with digestion in a Cystic, can lead to diarrhea, malnutrition, poor growth, weight loss, and blockages.
Blockages happen to Cystics all the time. Where the food going through the intestines are also covered in mucus. Making it very hard to maintain proper, stools and constipation. In turn getting a blockage, that will need surgery to correct it.
Another complication we encounter is with insulin levels and can cause a form of diabetes known as cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD).
***I like to say that I have somehow "beat" developing CFRD. I consume more sugary things in one day, it's scary. Of course this is most likely not true. Nor does it hold any medical merit. :)
Most Cystic's develop CFRD by the age of 30, this however is not always the case. Some Cystics develop CFRD at a younger age as well.
*** So think back to when you were in high school. Remeber that troubled class clown. He would make a spit wad, and shoot nasty wet pieces of paper onto people. Try taking a soaking wet paper towel (aka food) and then coat it in honey (aka mucus) Attempt to blow that paper towl out of a simple thick straw(milkshake worthy) it isn't going to work without a LOT of help. Which would be the reasons for the surgeries we sometimes have to have.
There are still ways of keeping digestion on track and different tricks. Taking enzyme, medications, treatments, extra vitamins, and so on! To keep us as healthy and as far away from more surgeries as possible!
Fiber is best,
Sandi
Sandi
