What are the common symptoms of cystic fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis is a life-threatening genetic disorder that affects the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. Common symptoms of cystic fibrosis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual, but they typically include persistent coughing with thick mucus production, frequent lung infections, difficulty gaining weight, salty-tasting skin, poor growth, frequent greasy stools, and difficulty digesting fats and proteins. Other symptoms may include diabetes, clubbing of the fingers or toes, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and frequent sinus infections. People with cystic fibrosis may also have persistent coughing up of blood and recurrent pneumonia. Additionally, some people with cystic fibrosis may develop cysts or polyps in their pancreas, leading to abdominal pain and other digestive symptoms. Early diagnosis is key to preventing or delaying the progression of cystic fibrosis and its associated complications.