Cystic Fibrosis
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Cystic Fibrosis
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Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis Symptoms

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Most people who have cystic fibrosis have symptoms. Symptoms depend on which organs are affected and how severe the condition is. Some people have few or no symptoms, while others experience severe symptoms or life-threatening complications. Symptoms can get better and worse at different times.

People who are carriers may have a few symptoms of cystic fibrosis that are usually mild.

What are the symptoms of cystic fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis most often affects the lungs. Some people who have cystic fibrosis have wheezing and a cough that can produce  mucus  or blood. Learn more about how the lungs work.

Other symptoms depend on the organs affected and can include:

  • Blocked intestine in a baby soon after birth
  • Clubbing  of fingers and toes due to less oxygen getting to the hands and feet
  • Delayed puberty
  • Fertility problems, especially for males
  • Fever, which may include night sweats
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms such as severe belly pain, chronic (long-term) diarrhea, or constipation
  • Infections of  sinuses  and lungs
  • Jaundice , or yellowing of the skin and eyes, for an abnormally long time after birth
  • Low  body mass index  (BMI) or being underweight
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Pancreatitis ( inflammation  of the pancreas)
  • Salty skin and extra-salty sweat
  • Slow growth and shorter height
How cystic fibrosis affects the body. Figure A shows the organs that may be affected by cystic fibrosis. Figure B shows a normal airway and the thin layer of mucus lining the wall. Figure C shows an airway with cystic fibrosis.
How cystic fibrosis affects the body. Figure A shows the organs that may be affected by cystic fibrosis. Figure B shows a normal airway and the thin layer of mucus lining the wall. Figure C shows an airway with cystic fibrosis. The widened airway is blocked by thick, sticky mucus that contains blood and bacteria.

When to call the doctor

Cystic fibrosis may have serious complications. Call your doctor right away if you believe you have any of the following.

  • Pulmonary  exacerbation  involves a worsening of lung symptoms, such as more coughing or wheezing, chest congestion, and a change in mucus color. You may also have weight loss, a poor appetite, or fever.
  • Coughing or spitting up blood may be a sign that an artery has broken and is bleeding into the airway.
  • Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain may be a sign of a pneumothorax, or collapsed lung.
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