Cystic fibrosis
How CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy® can help
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic condition that makes it difficult to breathe and digest food. There are roughly 35,000 people in the U.S. living with CF, and the outlook for patients has improved in recent years.¹ Learn more about CF and how CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy can support you on the road ahead.
What is cystic fibrosis?¹-²
CF is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs, digestive system and other organs of the body. It’s caused by a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene.
In people with CF, the CFTR gene doesn’t work properly, which leads to a buildup of mucus in the lungs and digestive system. This thick, sticky mucus can block the airways, making it hard to breathe. It can also block the digestive system’s enzymes from reaching food in the intestines, resulting in malnutrition.
CF is a serious disease, but it can be managed with proper treatment and medications. There are also several resources to help CF patients cope with the physical and emotional challenges of living with the inherited disorder.
CF symptoms can vary from patient to patient. Some people have few or no symptoms, while others have life-threatening complications. The symptoms depend on the severity of the condition and which organs are affected.
With every passing year, people with CF experience a small but worsening loss in lung function, leading to increased symptoms with age. As a result, some children remain relatively healthy throughout childhood and start experiencing symptoms for the first time as teenagers or young adults.
The most common symptoms of CF include:³
- Chronic coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Frequent chest and sinus infections
- Greasy stools
- Infertility in men
- Poor growth
- Recurring chest colds
- Salty-tasting skin
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
There is no cure for CF, but there are a number of treatments and medications available to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for people living with CF. These remedies include meds that help thin and clear mucus from the airways, enzymes to help absorb nutrients and antibiotics to treat infections.
CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy offers medications to treat CF, as directed by your prescriber.
Getting involved with your community
Whether it’s learning more about the condition, joining a support group or contributing to message boards, you can make a difference for others living with CF.
Specialists who work remotely to support you wherever you are
Emotional support
Get 1-on-1 support from healthcare professionals who understand what you’re going through. We’ll listen to your concerns, answer your questions and help you manage any stress or anxiety.
Financial assistance
Don’t stress the bills. We work with financial assistance programs like grants, foundations and manufacturers to help you get the care you need. We’ll also assist you with the application process.
Clinical guidance
Receive personalized support regularly and instructions on how to take your meds. We’ll also work with your doctor to adjust your therapy if you’re experiencing side effects.
Sources
- “Cystic Fibrosis,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, last accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
- “What Is Cystic Fibrosis?,” National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, last accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
- “About Cystic Fibrosis,” Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, last accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
This information is not intended as a substitute for medical care or advice provided by your doctor or professional care provider. Only your doctor or professional care provider can diagnose and treat a medical condition.
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