10 Cystic Fibrosis Symptoms You Should Know

Generally speaking, cystic fibrosis (CF) is a disease mostly diagnosed in newborns and infants because symptoms are apparent and progressive in a short amount of time. Most children are diagnosed before the age of two.

1 – Salty-Tasting Skin Secretions

Symptoms to look for in a newborn include salty-tasting skin secretions.

2 – Inability To Gain Weight

Sometimes, newborns will be unable to gain weight. In fact, the newborn may lose weight.

3 – Slow Growth

Newborns may grow slower than the normal growth rate.

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 4 – Coughing

Respiratory symptoms to look for in a newborn may include coughing.

5 – Nasal Congestion

Nasal congestion could be a respiratory symptom to watch for.

6 – Pneumonia

Newborns might develop pneumonia.

MORE: 5 Lung Diseases That Affect the Airways

 7 – Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another symptom.

8 – Bowel symptoms

Be aware of bowel symptoms that could include diarrhea, severe constipation creating a stomach ache, bloating and gas, nausea, appetite loss and foul smelling stools.

9 – Phlegm

 Phlegm could be another symptom.

10 – Fever

Fever can be indicative of many things, but also could be a  symptom of CF.

*Symptoms that may occur later in life:

Clubbed fingers, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and possible infertility in males (loss of the vas deferens due to mucus build up).

Cystic Fibrosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.