Causes, Risk Factors & Complications Of Cystic Fibrosis

Chronic Infections

Chronic infections of the lungs are a common symptom found in patients with cystic fibrosis. In healthy individuals, mucus is easily and safely removed from the lungs on a regular basis. However, in patients with cystic fibrosis, this process does not occur normally—over time, large amounts of thick mucus accumulate in the lungs and can't be flushed out. Unfortunately, this mucus is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Most commonly, cystic fibrosis patients contract Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is a form of pneumonia. This can be difficult to treat because of its recurring nature and also because the infection is increasingly becoming resistant to treatment.

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