Cystic Fibrosis Symptoms

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 or worse at different times.

People who are carriers may also have symptoms of cystic fibrosis. Usually, the symptoms are milder than with cystic fibrosis. Many people who are carriers do not have symptoms.

Call 9-1-1 immediately if you can no longer breathe or talk easily or if you start coughing up blood. If you or someone you know starts acting confused or develops blue lips or skin, call an ambulance for help.

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 reaching 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.** Section A of the illustration shows the organs that may be affected by cystic fibrosis. Section B shows a normal airway with a thin layer of mucus lining the wall. Section 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.

When to call 9-1-1

Call 9-1-1 for help if you suddenly have trouble breathing or talking, you feel confused, or your family or caregivers notice a bluish color on your skin or lips. These are signs of respiratory failure.

Also call 9-1-1 or go to the hospital if you start coughing up a lot of blood. If you are coughing up a small amount of blood, call your doctor.

FACT SHEET

Lung Health Basics

Learn about the lungs and some general lung terms.

View the fact sheet