First let me say that each person with Cystic Fibrosis is a little different. Some have more lung issues than pancreatic, others have major digestive issues while not having much impact to their lungs, and some have both issues. CF is progressive, those who have a mild case now may develop more moderate or severe symptoms in a year; maybe even 15 years, but no one can really predict when.

Second, I'll tell you about how I live with CF. I just turned 30 earlier this year, after my birthday I had my first ever tune up. What's a tune up? Well when you have CF and you get run down and/or sick your Dr will hopefully recommend it. I was 30 before needing my first; so it is safe to assume that I had a mild case for my early childhood and adulthood, and now my symptoms are more moderate. I go to a CF clinic every 3 months and have multiple tests done to make sure I'm healthy. One thing that took a while for me to get used to was spitting in a cup for them. Yep; one of the first things I'm asked to do is to cough up some phlegm and spit it in the cup! They send it to a lab to make sure I don't have any bacteria/mold growing in my lungs.

My day starts with 2 antibiotics (3 lately as I've been sick), something for allergies, a mucus thinner, and next I move on to 2 nebulizer treatments and chest physical therapy (Pounding on my pack or using my shaker vest). Through out the day I have to take enzymes to help digest my food, and I'm taking multiple vitamin and mineral supplements because my body just doesn't absorb nutrients very well.
My night comes to a close with 2 antibiotics, Singular, a mucus thinner then 1 more neb treatment and more chest PT. I only put my CF meds on the list, I also have a thyroid issue 2 mitochondrial mutations and GERD.

I still work; however part time. I'm also married and have a beautiful daughter. Cystic Fibrosis is a harsh reality, believe me, and I have it easy.

Learn more about this author, Christine Dunbar.
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