The type and severity of symptoms vary with each patient because there are different mutations of the defective CF gene. Some symptoms appear at birth while others may not experience symptoms for years.
Absence of Meconium
One of the first signs of cystic fibrosis in newborns is the inability to produce meconium in the first few days of life. Meconium is the term for an infant's first stool. Meconium is a thick, greenish black stool that is extremely sticky. It is composed of mucus, amniotic fluid, bile, and cells that have been shed from the baby's skin. In newborns with cystic fibrosis, the meconium may become so thick and sticky that it can't pass through the intestines.
Bowel Abnormalities
Cystic fibrosis causes mucus to become thick and sticky. The pancreas secretes enzymes to help digest food and control blood-glucose levels. The thick, sticky mucus in the intestines prevents the enzymes from reaching the food. If the enzymes are unable to reach the food, proper digestion does not take place. The body's inability to digest food correctly causes a variety of bowel difficulties. The bowel abnormalities may include:
- Frequent greasy, bulky stools
- Foul smelling stools
- Diarrhea
- Blockage in the bowels
Poor Growth or Malnourishment
Delayed growth or failure to grow is a common symptom of cystic fibrosis. Individuals with CF have a difficult time absorbing proteins, fats and essential vitamins.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, usually caused by infection. Sinusitis can be caused by a viral infection or a bacterial infection.
The sinuses of individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) usually look extremely unhealthy on x-rays. Unhealthy sinuses are unusual to find in children, except in children with CF. If a physician finds that a sinus x-ray exhibits an abnormal sinus area; he may order additional testing such as a sweat test.
Digital Clubbing
The majority of individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) will have a condition called digital clubbing. Digital clubbing affects the shape of the fingers and toes. There are two main characteristics of clubbing. First the tip of the finger is wider than a normal finger tip. Secondly, the tissues underneath the nails are thicker than the rest of the finger or toe. The nails also curve downward, similar to the shape of a frown.
Clubbing can be a useful screening tool when a child with lung complication is being assessed, since clubbing is found in the majority of patients with CF over the age of two and is not often seen in children without cystic fibrosis. If a child experiences digital clubbing, cystic fibrosis testing is recommended.
Coughing and Wheezing
Thick, sticky mucus is the most common characteristic of cystic fibrosis (CF). Mucus becomes thick and sticky in the lungs. The thick mucus clogs the air tubes, which can lead to bacterial infection in the lungs. Lung infections can cause wheezing, coughing and inflammation of the lungs. Children with CF will also cough up thick sputum (phlegm).
Salty Skin
People with cystic fibrosis usually have higher amounts of salt in their sweat. They lose a large amount of salt while sweating, which causes their skin to be extra salty. This usually is one of the first signs parents notice because they can taste the salt when they kiss their child.
Lung Infections
Cystic fibrosis patients are likely to develop frequent lung infections because of the mucus buildup within the lungs. When the mucus is unable to drain the tubes and ducts in the lungs, bacteria can grow. Lung infections are caused by bacteria.
The most common lung infections associated with CF, are bronchitis and pneumonia. Lung infections can lead to lung damage and scarring. Therefore, controlling lung infection and inflammation in the lungs, is one of the most important treatments for CF
Stomach Pain
People with CF may have stomach discomfort caused by increased air (gas) in the intestines. The combination of the bowel abnormalities and the increased gas can cause stomach pain.
