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Medicine has advanced the treatment
of Cystic Fibrosis (CF) significantly in the past
10 years. Various measures that clear the lungs
are becoming standardized.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
as well as other support groups have been
contributing not only to uncovering a cure but in
helping the patient and their families as well.
In 1989 the gene etiology of
this condition was recognized and gene therapy is
now being actively pursued. The CF patient fails
to have normal mucus clearance. Thick tenacious
mucus keeps bacteria from being cleared and
prevents antibiotics from being effective.
Clearance of mucus from the chest therefore is a
paramount treatment objective. Various physical
therapy methods include chest percussion, forceful
exhalation, various dilators, postural drainage.
The flutter device uses sound vibration to help
reduce the thickness of the mucus. Inhalation of
drugs that break down the structure of the mucus
are in use.
A similar thick fluid causes
sinus infections. Nasal polyps are common. This is
a type of bag of water where the liquid is
maintained within the cell so that the cell
expands and blocks the nose. A mucocele can
develop, often in the frontal sinus. This is a
similar bag of water within a membrane that
expands and puts pressure on the sinus wall.
Headaches in the frontal sinus area - above the
eyes - is a common sign.
Pulsatile irrigation is useful
in several ways. First it can remove thick
secretions from the nose and sinus. This is
important because removal of thick secretions
helps to restore regular methods of body
resistance. Pulsatile irrigation helps remove
bacteria. Any reduction of the bacterial load
helps the body resist infection. |
