Cystic Fibrosis (Adjunctive Care)

Also known as: Cystic fibrosis, CF, Mucoviscidosis

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition affecting the CFTR protein, causing thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and digestive system, leading to chronic lung infections, progressive lung damage, pancreatic insufficiency and nutritional problems [1][2]. It is managed by specialist CF teams with airway clearance physiotherapy, inhaled and oral antibiotics, pancreatic enzymes, nutritional support and, for most people now, CFTR modulator medicines that have transformed life expectancy [1][2][3]. Treatment adherence and infection control are critical, and people with CF must avoid close contact with each other because of cross-infection risk [2][3]. In Chinese medicine the presentation corresponds to Phlegm obstructing the Lung with underlying Lung-Spleen Qi deficiency and, over time, Kidney deficiency; digestive symptoms reflect Spleen deficiency with Damp. Chinese medicine is strictly adjunctive in CF, offering support for energy, appetite, sleep and stress alongside specialist care, and herbal medicine requires particular care because of drug interactions and infection risk [3][4].