How to Treat Cystic Fibrosis Through Regular Exercise

Both children and adults with cystic fibrosis (CF) can benefit from regular exercise several times per week. Exercise can increase lung capacity and help prevent lung infections by clearing the respiratory system of excess mucus. Once considered dangerous for people with cystic fibrosis, regular exercise is becoming an important part of CF treatment. These days, you may even see a few CF marathoners out there.

Instructions

1. Treat cystic fibrosis through regular exercise that can relieve breathing problems by increasing lung capacity. Physical exercise can help loosen mucus, making it easier for you to fight off bacterial infections. Coughing as you exercise can clear mucus buildup.

2. Exercise regularly for 30 minutes, 3 to 5 days per week, to build bone density and gain flexibility. Some researchers believe that regular exercise can prolong life for people with CF by several years.

3. Use aerobic exercise that promotes conditioning and builds lung capacity. Stick to exercise with a continuous heart rate, such as walking, running, swimming and bicycling.

4. Try yoga to strengthen core muscles and build lung capacity through controlled breathing. Other sports, such as weight lifting, can strengthen muscles and build bone density.

5. Exercise in combination with other treatments, including mucus-thinning drugs, antibiotics, and airway-clearance techniques.

6. Practice breathing exercises, emphasizing relaxed exhalation in addition to physical exercise to develop your diaphragm, which can make it easier to breathe.

7. Ask your doctor about developing a physical-therapy program if you are unable to exercise or are confined to a hospital for any length of time.

8. Treat cystic fibrosis through a combination of diet and exercise, so that burned calories are replaced. Pay attention to weight loss and adjust your diet accordingly if you begin to lose too much weight.

9. Consult a physician when creating an exercise program for children. While most regular aerobic exercise is safe, some contact sports and weight lifting may require supervision and caution.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your doctor about fluid intake while exercising to ensure that you don't become dehydrated. Some people may also benefit from taking salt supplements.

• Be sure to stretch before and after exercise to increase flexibility. Focus on activities that will stretch the torso, arms and spine to promote good posture and improve respiratory function.

• Talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise programs.

• Don't try to make up for missed exercise sessions with an extra-vigorous workout. Intermittent vigorous exercise can lead to muscle strain and serious injuries.

• Use caution in extreme heat, as it can make breathing extremely difficult for people with CF.