Cystic Fibrosis

7 Pages 1642 Words

es, the more swelling there is and the smaller the airway opening becomes, making it more difficult for air to move in and out. If the infection or inflammation last for too long or remain untreated they can become permanently damaged. The progression of lung damage is very slow and subtle, yet eventually it will get to the point where there isn’t enough healthy lung to bring oxygen into the body or to eliminate carbon dioxide. (Orenstein, 31)
Another part of the body that is greatly affected by cystic fibrosis is the gastrointestinal tract. Abnormal mucus blocks the tubes in the pancreas a lot like it does in the lungs. Because of this blockage, digestive enzymes aren’t released into the intestine like they should be; these enzymes are needed for normal digestion and absorption. Many problems occur in the intestine as a result of blockage. A condition called Distal Intestinal Obstruction Syndrome occurs when there is blockage far down the intestines, in the colon, too few enzymes may bring on this condition. The symptoms...