Full Answer Section

Genetic counselors use a variety of tools to help their patients, including:

• Genetic testing
• Family history analysis
• Medical counseling
• Support groups

What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the way the body produces mucus. Mucus is a thick, sticky substance that helps to protect the body from infection. In people with CF, the mucus is thick and sticky, which can cause problems in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs.

The signs and symptoms of CF can vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Frequent lung infections
• Difficulty breathing
• Digestive problems
• Salty sweat
• Growth problems

CF is a progressive disease, which means that it gets worse over time. There is no cure for CF, but there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Tests for Cystic Fibrosis

There are a number of laboratory tests and diagnostic tests that can be used to diagnose CF. These tests include:

• Genetic testing: This test can look for changes in the CFTR gene, which is the gene that causes CF.
• Sweat test: This test measures the amount of salt in sweat. People with CF have high levels of salt in their sweat.
• Pancreatic function tests: These tests measure how well the pancreas is working. The pancreas is an organ that helps to digest food. People with CF often have problems with their pancreas.

Other Types of Media That Would Help People Understand Cystic Fibrosis

There are a number of other types of media that can help people understand CF. These include:

• Books: There are a number of books about CF that are written for both adults and children.
• Websites: There are a number of websites that provide information about CF.
• Videos: There are a number of videos about CF that can be found online.
• Talk to a genetic counselor: A genetic counselor can provide information and support to people about CF.