Guest Article - by Jenna Walters

One of by blog-readers asked if she could do a guest article. She is a recent college graduate majoring in English, passionate about writing about health issues. And come to think of it, I've never really posted much about CF and it's workings. Feel free to comment!

Cystic Fibrosis and Alternative Therapy

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system. Over 70,000 people worldwide have been diagnosed with this condition in the last years. This inherited chronic disease is triggered by a faulty gene that controls the movement of salt and water in the body’s cells. The symptoms of cystic fibrosis vary over time. The main symptoms associated with this disease include persistent cough, repeated lung infections, intestinal blockage, and pulmonary hypertension.

This medical condition causes the internal organs to become clogged with thick, sticky mucus. A combination of medication and physiotherapy can help control lung infections. There is no cure for this disease. Cystic fibrosis can be kept under control through exercise and proper nutrition. Management of cystic fibrosis can help improve the patient's quality of life and delay the decline in organ function. In addition to standard treatments, doctors often recommend herbal supplements, acupuncture, massage, yoga, and homeopathic remedies.

Homeopathic treatments help the immune system fight against the disease and stimulate the body’s curative powers. Homeopathic remedies can relieve discomfort and reduce cystic fibrosis symptoms. This form of treatment is safe for pregnant women, children, and infants. Unlike drugs, homeopathic remedies are non-addictive and have no side effects. Homeopaths believe that this form of treatment uses the body's own powerful capacity to heal itself. Examples of remedies that may be prescribed for cystic fibrosis patients include Laurocerasus, Carbo vegetabilis, and Antimonium tart.

Acupuncture is a form of treatment that involves inserting thin needles in the body. This alternative therapy strengthens the immune system and stimulates respiratory function. Studies indicate that acupuncture is beneficial in treating nausea, anxiety, shortness of breath, pain, and other respiratory related symptoms that may be experienced by cystic fibrosis patients.

Massage therapy can help drain mucus from the lungs and trigger the release of endorphins. Therapeutic massage has been shown to reduce pain and muscle tightness in cystic fibrosis patients. This form of treatment improves pulmonary function, boosts energy levels, and increases muscle strength. Research has shown that massage therapy promotes well-being and reduces anxiety.

Diet is also a very important factor for individuals with serious illnesses such as pericardial mesothelioma, crohn’s disease, and Cystic Fibrosis. Cystic Fibrosis patients should be careful about what their diet consists of and should seek experienced advice on this subject. The use of certain herbal remedies may help relieve symptoms. Early treatment for cystic fibrosis can increase a patient's life expectancy and improve his general health.

- Jenna Walters