What are the digestive symptoms of cystic fibrosis?

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a chronic genetic disorder that affects the digestive system. It is caused by a defect in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. This gene affects the production of a protein which regulates the movement of salt and water in and out of cells.

The most common digestive symptoms of CF are malabsorption, constipation, diarrhea, steatorrhea, and pancreatic insufficiency. Malabsorption occurs when the body is unable to absorb adequate amounts of nutrients from food. This can lead to weight loss and anemia. Constipation is a common symptom of CF and is caused by the inability of the intestines to move food through the digestive tract. Diarrhea is another common symptom of CF and is caused by the thick, sticky mucus that builds up in the intestines and prevents the absorption of nutrients. Steatorrhea is a condition in which the body is unable to absorb fats properly and they are passed out in the stool. Pancreatic insufficiency occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce the necessary enzymes to properly digest food. This results in poor absorption of fat and a lack of important vitamins and minerals in the body.

In addition to these digestive symptoms, CF can also cause abdominal pain, flatulence, bloating, and nausea. Treatment for CF may involve medications to help with digestion, nutritional supplements, and lifestyle modifications. It is important to consult with a doctor to determine the best treatment plan for an individual with CF.