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Step 1
Do not be overly concerned about preparing for a cystic fibrosis sweat test. Doctors say that it is OK to eat what you normally eat, drink what you normally drink and even exercise before you take the test.
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Step 2
Continue to take prescribed medications as directed by your doctor prior to your sweat test. Be sure, however, that you doctor has a complete list of all medications you are currently taking.
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Step 3
Arrive at the doctor's office early. If the test is for a child, read her a book or keep her occupied so that stress levels are kept to a minimum.
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Step 4
Take the medication your doctor will administer for the sweat test. Drugs are given that cause you to sweat more than normal in order to obtain a large enough sample to make an accurate diagnosis.
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Step 5
Sit still while the sweat sample is collected from your body. A doctor or assistant will use a simple gauze strip to collect sweat directly from the surface of your skin. There are no needles involved.
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Step 6
Talk to your doctor about the results of your sweat test. Sweat tests are designed to gauge the level of salt in your body. People who have cystic fibrosis have very high sodium content in their sweat. CF sufferers can have double, even 5 times the amount of salt in their sweat as other people.
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Step 7
Have your baby's sweat tested within its first few days of life. Early detection is key to creating effective treatment plans. There is no cure for cystic fibrosis, but with early detection patients can live longer, healthier lives.
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Step 8
Repeat the sweat test as necessary. Often, two positive sweat tests are required for an accurate diagnosis to be made.
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Step 9
Consider having a blood test done to confirm the diagnosis. You may also ask for another sweat test to be performed or may seek a second opinion from another doctor.
