How to Treat Cystic Fibrosis With Mucus-Thinning Drugs
Cystic fibrosis (CF) causes the production of thick mucus that collects in various organs and causes chronic respiratory and digestive difficulties. Mucus-thinning drugs make it easier to clear congestion and fight infections caused by bacteria growing in thickened mucus. Treatment can lead to weight gain, nutrient absorption and improved lung functioning.
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Instructions
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Use Mucus-Thinning Drugs to Treat Cystic Fibrosis
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Use mucus-thinning drugs to break up the excess DNA created when white-blood cells fight bacteria trapped in your lungs. Drugs, such as dornase alfa or Pulmozyme, are administered directly to the airways through a nebulizer. When excess DNA has been broken up, mucus becomes thinner and is easier to clear from the lungs through coughing.
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Inhale hypertonic saline twice a day through a nebulizer. Saline is highly concentrated sterile salt water that can be administered to children as young as 6 years old, under a doctor's supervision. Saline helps clear airways of bacteria and may reduce the frequency and severity of lung infections. Repeated lung infections can cause permanent lung damage.
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Use enemas to target mucus buildup in intestines. Mucus-thinning drugs treat blockages that prevent absorption of nutrients and lead to malnutrition. Excess mucus blocks the movement of digestive enzymes from the pancreas to the stomach.
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Use N-Acetyl Cysteine, a nutrient that not only has mucus-thinning effects, but also works as an antioxidant.
Combine Airway Clearance Techniques With Mucus-Thinning Drugs
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Use chest clapping or percussion techniques by thumping on the chest and back to clear excess mucus as it is broken up by mucus-thinning drugs. Chest percussion is also known as Chest Physical Therapy, or CPT, and should be performed at least twice daily for 30 minutes.
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Use gravity to help clear lungs through postural drainage. Sit or lie on your stomach with your head down or hanging over the edge of a bed.
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Treat cystic fibrosis symptoms by practicing deep-breathing exercises to clear the lungs. Use coughing, breathing-relaxation techniques and huffing to break up phlegm and move mucus from small to large-bronchial airways.
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Dislodge loosened mucus with the use of a vibrating vest, or use Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) devices to open bronchial airways.
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Tips & Warnings
Slow mucus growth by limiting wheat and glutens in your diet and adding garlic, parsley, watercress, horseradish, mustard, onions, nuts, seeds and cold-water fish, such as salmon and mackerel.
Exercise several times per week to keep mucus from accumulating in your lungs and to improve respiratory health.
