Growing up With Cystic Fibrosis

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WELCOME

Introduction

Welcome to our information page for all those who care for individuals living with cystic fibrosis (CF). As we live in a world of technology there are many CF websites available for public access on the Internet. Thus, our page is designed to build upon previous resources available, and condense valuable information through our own critical analysis. It is our objective to provide parents and carers with a learning resource and developmental tool in order to ease concerns. We aim to achieve this through discussion of six important aspects of living with CF, thereby promoting self-efficacy towards assisting in the implementation of necessary changes, or providing continued support.

Our mission is to advance the knowledge among all readers to be well informed to assist individuals living with CF. Furthermore, to promote consolidation of comprehension through participation in our interactive learning tools.

Our vision is that all readers will understand the disease and overall impact that it has for all those affected by CF. Additionally, we aim to educate readers so that they become confident in assisting with the choice of appropriate treatments, and be proactive about implementing any desired changes.

Navigating the Wiki

The blue box above contains clickable titles reflecting the content of each section for those who wish to read about a specific topic regarding CF. Our webpage has a vast amount of CF content to offer with hyperlinks, pictures, tables, charts, and videos to assist your learning needs. Additonally, there are self-assessment questions for the reader to reflect on their learning of each section.

Learning Outcomes

After exploring this wiki page, the reader should be able to:

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF CYSTIC FIBROSIS

Cystic fibrosis is caused by the defective “cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductive regulator” (CFTR) gene. 

CF is a monogenic recessive disease, meaning, a person usually needs the defective CFTR gene copy from each parent, in order to develop cystic fibrosis.

• The CFTR gene affects chloride channels throughout the body (CI) which also affects sodium in the body (Na).
• It blocks the reabsorption of CL, consequently affecting the reabsorption of Na in order to maintain a balance between the two.

This defective CFTR gene can affect different organs. However, there is much variability in the severity of his disease among the different organs. This depends on the characteristics of the defective CFTR gene and the organ in question.  For example, the pancreas and the vas deferens are more susceptible to the pathological effects of this defective CFTR gene, compared with sweat ducts and the skin; This is due to the specific physiological make up of an organ in relation to their dependence of the CFTR gene.  In cystic fibrosis, the mainly affected organs can include the lungs, the skin, the pancreas, the male reproductive tract and the intestines:

Lungs

This defective gene does not allow CL and therefore Na (which water follows and acts as a lubricant) to cross the epithelium in the lungs for increased moisture and lubrication. This can in turn, affect mucociliary clearance.

• The lungs therefor struggle to clear mucus, due to thick secretions
• This, in turn, causes an increased chance for infection as the lungs struggle to function normally.

Male Reproductive Tract

The defective CFTR usually causes infertility in males with cystic fibrosis – In most cases of males with cystic fibrosis, it causes an abnormally developed vas deferens or an absence of the vas deferens.  The Vas deferens is a sperm duct which conveys sperm from the testes to the urethra in the penis. Consequently, males with cystic fibrosis have been commonly been shown to have a condition known as aspermia.  This is a condition whereby a male does not produce semen or sperm upon ejaculation/orgasm.

Intestines

Similar to the other organs, CL and Na blockage due to malfunctioning CL channels from the defective CFTR gene can be present in the intestines. This can disrupt fluidity in these areas due to the aforementioned Na which attracts water.

Skin

Cl channels which allow for reabsorption back into the body are affected in sweat glands (which also affects reabsorption of Na).

• Therefore, these ions must cross over to the skin which can cause very salty sweat.

Pancreas

Blockage of CL & Na secretions can affect secretions of substances like insulin.

• This can then lead to diabetes which is very common in cystic fibrosis sufferers. 

Essential nutrients and enzymes can also be affected by this.

• This may lead to malnourishment, delay in puberty and therefor, restricted growth in children.

Check Point: Try these self-assessment questions below

1. Which gene must be defective/malfunctioning in order to cause cystic fibrosis? This affects the transfer and secretions of which ions?

2. What are the main organs/structures affected by cystic fibrosis?

3. Why is diabetes a common issue for people with cystic fibrosis? Which organ is responsible for this?

4. How may cystic fibrosis cause a lung infection?

EMOTIONAL WELLNESS

The transition from child care to an adult cystic fibrosis service comes with a lot of changes. Being responsible for your own or someone else`s chronic condition through this transition can be very challenging. People living with cystic fibrosis sometimes experience daily treatment, physical restrictions, psychosocial morbidity and health decline. Some people living with cystic fibrosis may find that coping with the disease elevates levels of stress, anxiety and depression. Studies have found that individuals with cystic fibrosis have higher rates of both depression and anxiety compared to the general population. Moreover, psychological symptoms in both people living with cystic fibrosis and parents have been associated with decreased lung function, lower body mass, worse adherence, worse health-related quality of life, more frequent hospitalisations and increased healthcare costs. In addition, some family and social variables change throughout this time period and also influence disease progression. Studies have shown that people with cystic fibrosis, as well as parents who take care of children with cystic fibrosis, are more likely to experience anxiety than people in the general population. Given these high rates of depression and anxiety and their effects on quality of life and key health outcomes, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the European Cystic Fibrosis Society supported the formation of an InternationalCommittee on Mental Health in CF (ICMH). The ICMH provides guidelines and recommendations for treatment and screening for depression and anxiety.

Anxiety and Cystic Fibrosis

Anxiety is a normal emotion that comes and goes in response to fears or worries about changes in health, work, relationships or money. A person may have an anxiety disorder if the anxiety does not go away, gets worse over time and prevents them from participating in ordinary daily activities. An anxiety disorder is different than normal anxiety in that it can occur for an extended period of time and interfere with your ability to manage your cystic fibrosis effectively and experience a better quality of life. Some people living with cystic fibrosis also experience a very specific form of anxiety centered on medical procedures. Anxiety is one of the most common emotional issues that people face. People living with cystic fibrosis or who have a child with cystic fibrosis may experience a great deal of stress. Making time for daily treatments, remembering to take medications, missing out on things you want to do and being hospitalized for an infection all cause stress and anxiety, which affect emotional wellness.16

Anxiety disorder affects both your physical and emotional health and how you care for yourself. For example, some people with untreated anxiety:

• Are less likely to manage their treatment plans
• Have a lower body mass index (BMI)
• Tend to have worse lung function
• Experience more hospitalizations
• Often have higher health care costs
• Experience a lower quality of life
  

Symptoms of Anxiety Include

• Worrying too much
• Exaggerated worry
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Muscle tension
• Headaches
• Sweating
• Difficulty concentrating
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• Fatigue
• Trembling
• Startling easily
  

Children and teenagers may have additional symptoms, including but not limited to worries about:

• School or sports performances
• Being on time
• Natural and man-made disasters, such as war or earthquakes
• Fitting in with peers
• Performing homework for long periods of time
• Redoing homework assignments
• Being perfectionists
• Getting approval
• Getting reassurance
  

Anxiety About Medical Proceedures

For people living with cystic fibrosis, ‘procedural anxiety’ is particularly most important. Procedural anxiety is excessive fear of a medical or surgical procedure that results in serious stress or avoidance. Patients may experience anxiety in anticipation of or during procedures. Avoidance due to procedural anxiety can have negative health consequences. Many people with cystic fibrosis need to have invasive medical procedures, such as placement of feeding tubes. Feeling nervous about medical procedures is natural but the exaggerated fear or phobia that some people with cystic fibrosis experience before medical procedures is not normal when it interferes with their ability to manage their cystic fibrosis effectively.

Identifying Anxiety

Your care team may offer a screening, which is usually a short survey that should take only a few minutes to finish. The survey may ask if you're experiencing feelings of anxiety, such as nervousness, uncontrollable worry or difficulty performing your usual activities, such as going to work or taking care of things at home. If the survey results suggest that you or your child may have an anxiety disorder, your cystic fibrosis care team may recommend further evaluation and treatment if necessary. If your care team does not include a mental health specialist, you may be referred to one who does not work at your care center and can evaluate your child to determine if treatment is necessary. For parents who may be experiencing anxiety, the cystic fibrosis care team may refer you to your primary care physician to coordinate your care. It is important to be honest when completing the survey. Some people find it difficult to admit that they are struggling because it makes them feel like they are letting their families or loved ones down. On the contrary, asking for help is a positive step toward getting better. Anxiety can be treated successfully, but only if the symptoms are properly identified.

Some examples of surveys are:

1. Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9)

• Includes an item to assess suicide risk.

2. Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7)

• A scale for annual screening of adolescents (ages 12 years and older) and adults with cystic fibrosis and offered annually to at least one primary caregiver of children with cystic fibrosis (ages 0–17 years).

PHQ-9 and GAD-7 are free, brief, reliable and valid. Both provide optimal cut-off scores for detecting psychological symptoms and are available in all major languages.

For procedures on screening and treatment of depression and anxiety for individuals with CF (ages 12–adulthood) please see flow chart below

Treating Anxiety

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you or your child identify and change unrealistic or unhealthy thoughts, emotions and behaviors. After identifying unhealthy thoughts, emotions and behaviors, you challenge and replace them with more effective thoughts and behaviors. Your mental health professional also may teach you relaxation techniques and deep breathing as part of your treatment.

Medication

Medication can help restore the balance of brain chemicals and is typically prescribed by a psychiatrist who is a medical doctor with special training in identifying and treating anxiety. Although these medications are commonly known as antidepressants, they also are very effective at helping people with anxiety. One class of antidepressant medication commonly prescribed to treat anxiety is serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs work by preventing the reabsorption of the chemical serotonin, which can relieve anxiety. These medications can begin working within one to two weeks, but you might not experience their full effects for two to three months. If you have not begun to feel better after several weeks, tell your doctor or care team. For people with more severe anxiety or anxiety that does not improve with either talk therapy or medication, treatment may be a combination of the two.

Treatment of Anxiety Related to Medical Procedures

Treatment of anxiety, such as a phobia related to medical procedures, begins with cognitive behavioral therapy.  If anxiety levels before procedures do not improve, medications called benzodiazepines may be prescribed beforehand. Benzodiazepines are sedatives that help a person relax. They are for short-term use only, because they can be habit-forming.

How You Can Help Yourself?

• Be physically active. Exercise can help reduce stress.
• Practice relaxation techniques.
• Avoid alcohol or drugs.
• Avoid caffeine and cigarettes, which can increase anxiety levels.
• Practice good sleep habits. Do your best to get enough sleep. Go to bed and wake up on a consistent schedule. Avoid staying in bed when you are not sleeping.
• Get outside or in nature for 30 minutes each day.
• Make time for things you enjoy.
• Continue with your treatment plan.
• Join an anxiety support group. Talking about your problems with people who have the same experience can help you feel less alone.

Although these activities are not a substitute for professional care, they can make a real difference in your anxiety levels.

Don't Wait to Ask for Help

Trying to feel better on your own or delaying professional help can make things harder for you and your loved ones.
There are effective treatments for depression that can help you get back to living the life you want to live, so don't wait to ask for help. If you think you or your child might be depressed, talk to a member of your cystic fibrosis care team about it. Anxiety can seriously affect your emotional wellbeing and your overall health if the depression is not treated. You may be able to help prevent depression by talking to your care team about how you're feeling before those feelings get in the way of your daily routine. Let them know if you're having trouble coping with a new treatment regimen or dealing with a change in your or your child's health.14

For support, help and information for those with anxiety disorders: Anxiety UK 0844 477 5774

Depression in Cystic Fibrosis

People living with cystic fibrosis can be depressive in mood or lose the interest of most activities. Unlike ordinary sadness, clinical depression can last for a long time if not treated. People who have depression can have extended periods where they feel hopeless and lose interest in things they normally would enjoy. Studies measuring psychological distress in individuals with cystic fibrosis have found elevated rates of both depression and anxiety. The prevalence of depression ranges from 8% to 29% among children and adolescents, and 13–33% among adults, anxiety in adults has ranged from 30% to 33%.  Researchers found that people with cystic fibrosis and parents who take care of children with cystic fibrosis are more likely to experience depression than people in the general population. Caregivers have also been reported to have elevations in depression scores ranging from 20% to 35%.  Evidence indicates that when a parent reported elevated depressive or anxious symptoms, the adolescent with cystic fibrosis was more than twice as likely to also experience depression and anxiety. Untreated depression can affect both your physical and emotional health, and interfere with your ability to take care of yourself or your child. Risk for suicide is a core component of depression, is a major cause of death among adolescents and adults in the general population and in recent years found to be about 1.6% of all deaths among people living with cystic fibrosis.

People with untreated depression:

• Are less likely to manage their treatment plans
  
• Tend to have worse lung function
• Have a lower body mass index (BMI)
• Experience more hospitalizations
• Often have higher health care costs
• Experience a lower quality of life

Symptoms of Depression

You or your child may be suffering from depression if five or more of the following symptoms are experienced for two weeks or more:

• Sadness
• Loss of energy*
• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
• Loss of enjoyment in things you or your child once liked
• Problems concentrating
• Uncontrollable crying
• Problems making decisions
• Irritability
• Sleeping more than usual
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Stomach aches or other digestive problems
• Loss of interest in sex
• Sexual problems
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite and weight loss*
• Weight gain
• Thoughts of suicide
• Suicide attempts

• Some symptoms of depression, such as fatigue or weight loss, also can be symptoms of cystic fibrosis.
  

What Increases My Risk for Depression?

• Physical and emotional abuse.
• Certain medications.
• Family history.
• Personal conflicts or arguments.
• Death or another emotional loss.
• Significant life events, even positive ones.
• Other personal issues.
• Substance abuse. Almost 30 percent of people with depression abuse alcohol or drugs.

Identifying Depression

Your care team may offer a screening, which is usually a short survey that should take only a few minutes to finish. The survey may ask if you're experiencing feelings of depression, such as nervousness, uncontrollable worry or difficulty performing your usual activities, such as going to work or taking care of things at home. f the survey results suggest that you or your child may have depression, your cystic fibrosis care team may recommend further evaluation and treatment if necessary. If your care team does not include a mental health specialist, you may be referred to one who does not work at your care center and can evaluate your child to determine if treatment is necessary. For parents who may be experiencing depression, the cystic fibrosis care team may refer you to your primary care physician to coordinate your care. It is important to be honest when completing the survey. Some people find it difficult to admit that they are struggling because it makes them feel like they are letting their families or loved ones down. On the contrary, asking for help is a positive step toward getting better. Depression can be treated successfully, but only if the symptoms are properly identified.

Some examples of surveys are:

1. Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9)

• Includes an item to assess suicide risk.
  

2. Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7)

• A scale for annual screening of adolescents (ages 12 years and older) and adults with cystic fibrosis and offered annually to at least one primary caregiver of children with cystic fibrosis (ages 0–17 years).

PHQ-9 and GAD-7 are free, brief, reliable and valid. Both provide optimal cut-off scores for detecting psychological symptoms and are available in all major languages.

Treating Depression

Talk Therapy Talk therapy involves meeting with a health care professional who specializes in treating depression, discusses your issues and works with you to develop solutions. Common types of talk therapy for treating depression include:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help you identify and change unrealistic or unhealthy thoughts, emotions and behaviors. After identifying unhealthy thoughts, emotions and behaviors, you challenge and replace them with more effective thoughts and behaviors.

2. Interpersonal Therapy can help you identify issues that may be causing problems for you, such as conflicts in your relationships or unresolved grief. Specific preventive strategies may be developed to reduce the risk of anxiety and depression in cystic fibrosis. For example, training in specific problem-solving and cognitive behavioural skills can decrease anxiety and improve resilience.

Medication

Medication is typically prescribed by a psychiatrist who is a medical doctor with special training in identifying and treating mental health conditions. Medication can help to restore the balance of brain chemicals, which are called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, are chemicals that relay signals between nerve cells. When they are out of balance, they can negatively affect your mood. A common class of antidepressant medication is serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs work by preventing the reabsorption of serotonin, which can relieve depression. Antidepressant medications begin working within one to two weeks, but you might not experience their full effects for two to three months. If you have not started to feel better after several weeks, tell your doctor. He or she can adjust your medication dosage or prescribe different medications to provide the best effect. If you have not begun to feel better after several weeks, tell your doctor or care team. For people with more severe depression or depression that does not improve with either talk therapy or medication, treatment may be a combination of the two.

How You Can Help Yourself?

In addition to care provided by a mental health specialist, you can do the following things to help yourself recover from depression and prevent it from coming back:

• Talk with somebody, preferably in person. Many people with depression withdraw and isolate themselves from other people.

• Spend time with people who lift your spirits.

• Avoid alcohol or drugs.

• Make sure you do your cystic fibrosis treatments every day.

• Practice good sleep habits. Do your best to get enough sleep. Go to bed and wake up on a consistent schedule. Avoid staying in bed when you are not sleeping.

• Get outside or in nature for 30 minutes each day. *Make time for things you enjoy.

• Exercise every day. Although these activities are not a substitute for professional care, they can make a real difference in your mood.

Don't Wait to Ask for Help

Trying to feel better on your own or delaying professional help can make things harder for you and your loved ones.  There are effective treatments for depression that can help you get back to living the life you want to live, so don't wait to ask for help. If you think you or your child might be depressed, talk to a member of your cystic fibrosis care team about it. Depression is a medical illness that can seriously affect your emotional wellbeing and your overall health if the depression is not treated. You may be able to help prevent depression by talking to your care team about how you're feeling before those feelings get in the way of your daily routine. Let them know if you're having trouble coping with a new treatment regimen or dealing with a change in your or your child's health.

If you are considering suicide, immediately call: 999 if you are in the UK or 800-273-8255 (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline)

Emotional Health for Caregivers 

The prevalence of reported parent caregiver mental illness in children’s medical notes was highest in the first year of life and decreased with increasing child age. Parents’ ways of coping with their children with cystic fibrosis differ as widely as the condition of the children themselves. The whole family will all be affected by the psychological pressures arising from the chronic nature of cystic fibrosis, the uncertainty about the future, the genetic aspects, worry, depression and the tiring routines of physiotherapy and supervising medication. The family may have to face up to the prospect of death. Although medical advice, support and bereavement counselling are available from cystic fibrosis hospital clinics, the pressures of coping with cystic fibrosis place enormous strains on relationships and family life. Unaffected children may feel resentment at the attention given to their sibling/s with cystic fibrosis, which in turn makes them feel guilty. They may try to attract attention by misbehaving or may even withdraw into themselves. Reduced household labour supply in this cohort may relate to fewer mothers returning to the work force following the birth of their child with cystic fibrosis, perhaps reflecting the burden associated with caring for a child with cystic fibrosis and hampering opportunities for flexible employment and income generation. The build-up of stress and anxiety can be gradual and, if you're not paying attention, can cause larger problems before you realize it. Symptoms of depression, anxiety or both can interfere with your ability to take care of your child effectively. Taking steps to take care of yourself can help you, your child and the rest of your family. If you recognize signs of stress, talk to your child's care team and your primary care provider so they can work with you on ways to reduce it. This way, you can avoid developing more serious depression and anxiety.

Signs include: *Physical problems, including headaches, stomach problems, back pain and sleeplessness. *Emotional issues, such as frustration, sadness, depression, anxiety, guilt, anger, loneliness, resentment, decreased enjoyment of pleasurable activities, social isolation and blaming. *Mental issues, including forgetfulness, mental exhaustion, more frequent accidents, trouble deciding, poor attention and memory, and confusion. *Spiritual issues, including feelings of alienation and hopelessness.

The following tips can help you avoid becoming overwhelmed: *Respond to bills, medication instructions and insurance forms as they arrive. *Learn as much as you can about cystic fibrosis if you haven't already. Connect with other parents of children with cystic fibrosis for general support and advice on how they handle their responsibilities. *Make time for yourself and others who are important to you, such as your spouse or partner, friends and family. *Eat a healthy diet. *Practice good sleep habits. Do your best to get enough sleep. Go to bed and wake up on a consistent schedule. Avoid staying in bed when you are not sleeping. *Get outside or in nature for 30 minutes each day.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has a great video for caregivers! Coping While Caring for Someone With Cystic Fibrosis

Growing Up with Cystic Fibrosis

Childhood

School can be a huge source of anxiety and depression build up among children living with cystic fibrosis. Appointments, such as physiotherapy, is time consuming, sometimes at the expense of a child’s social life, adding to stress and anxiety. Positively, children with cystic fibrosis often find supportive friends who help with care. Children with cystic fibrosis may be teased or picked on at school for reasons such as but not limited to:

• Being underweight and small for their age (some people with cystic fibrosis experience a delayed onset of puberty, which may cause anxiety or insecurity.)
• Having a persistent cough
• Taking tablets and capsules with meals
• Eating a different diet from classmates
• Missing school for treatments

Teenage Years

During teenage years there is a chance that children may neglect their physiotherapy and diet, further decreasing mood, attitude and adherence. Teenagers may need sympathetic treatment and counselling to help them deal with some of these issues. Cystic fibrosis requires a level of special involvement from teachers, which could include discussions with parents or even practical help. The most serious psychological problems of cystic fibrosis occur in adolescence when the rebellious behaviour shown by most teenagers may pose a threat to the health of someone with cystic fibrosis. Parents of children living with cystic fibrosis may be anxious about how their child will cope with school. Teachers can provide invaluable reassurance by making a special effort to meet parents before the child comes into their class.  Staff at schools can prove invaluable when a child with cystic fibrosis changes a class or teacher. Teachers may find that brothers or sisters of children with cystic fibrosis have problems at school too.These issues as well as the unpredictable outcome of cystic fibrosis may be very stressful for teenagers, requiring sympathetic understanding and counselling.

Psychosocial Factors

Psychosocial environment in early life is very important on the future health of all young children. For example, children who move frequently in early life are at increased risk of inferior physical health, behavioural problems and lower educational achievement. Family structure and function can directly influence anxiety and depression levels in a child with cystic fibrosis. Family functioning can be measured by family stress, parental capacity/mental health, family coping and resilience (including adjustment to diagnosis) and the one on one relationship between caregiver and the person living with disease. Elements of family functioning and social demographic factors are well known to have a major impact on normal child development and therefore are also likely to have significant influences on the progression and severity of cystic fibrosis. Health professionals working with people with cystic fibrosis report significant improvements in children’s health outcomes following positive changes to the family or social environment. Conversely, the impact of chronic disease on psychosocial and social economic status of individuals or families can be considerable. Additionally, pulmonary exacerbations may worsen depression and anxiety, from the impact of demoralisation, stress and inflammation.

Cystic Fibrosis Care Teams

Care teams should provide support in the form of education about cystic fibrosis in a sensitive and empathetic manner. They should pay attention to individual and family functioning and coping and encouraging habits that promote good physical and mental health. This includes exercise, nutrition, sleep hygiene and finding ways to balance the demands of cystic fibrosis with education, work and pleasurable activities that make life satisfying and meaningful. 
For more information you also can contact the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Compass at:

844-COMPASS (844-266-7277)
Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. ET
compass@cystic fibrosisf.org

Compass is a personalized service that can help you with insurance, financial, legal and other issues. Experienced and dedicated Compass case managers help people with cystic fibrosis and their families understand their coverage options and connect them to community resources for affording care.

Check Point: Try these self-assessment questions below

 

1. List at least four signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety.

2. What is the impact of one's emotional well-being?

3. Are you familiar with the support resources available to you?

PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENTS

Here you will find most of the treatments used today by physiotherapists to treat cystic fibrosis. These treatments can also be used at home and can be delivered either by the parent, carer or the individual themselves. It is important to talk your child’s physiotherapist and Cystic Fibrosis team if you have not encountered any of these treatment strategies before or if you have any questions as they can help you choose the right treatments and ensure you are confident in delivering them.
These treatment strategies are appropriate for all ages but further detail will be provided if there are modifications for younger individuals such as infants or toddlers.
There are a number of links provided in each section that will lead you to attachments or webpages with additional information or diagrams if you wish to access further information on any of these treatments.

1. Airway Clearance Techniques (ACT): Many of these techniques are used throughout the individual’s lifetime living with cystic fibrosis. Older children and adults can perform their own but small children and infants will need support.

• ACT’s are done to help individuals breath easier and stay healthy by loosening thick and sticky lung mucus allowing the individual to clear them by coughing. By mobilizing and getting rid of this mucus it reduces the chances of lung infection and it also improves lung function.

             i. ACBT

            ii. Autogenic Drainage

           iii. Postural Drainage, Percussions and Vibrations

           iv. PEP      (a) Oscillating PEP

                            (b) Flutter

                            (c) Acapella

             v. Inhalation Therapy

            vi. Non-Invasive Ventilation

2. Physiotherapy management of a newly diagnosed individual
3. Self Test Questions: Have you understood?

Airway Clearance Techniques

ACBT

What is ACBT and how does it work?

ACBT stands for active cycle of breathing techniques. It consists of breathing exercises that are used to mobilize and clear excess airway secretions and mucus. There are 3 components to ACBT:

1. Breathing control (BC) = Relaxed breathing at the individuals normal rate and depth. The person is encouraged to “tummy breath” instead of doing deep chest breathing.
2. Thoracic Expansion Exercises (TEE) = These breaths emphasize the breath going in. The person breaths in deeply and usually holds their breath at the end when they are full of air for 3 seconds and then lets their breath out in a relaxed and unforced manner. This works to get the secretions unstuck and moving. The 3 second hold is important to allow the air to reach into the obstructed regions that it might not normally get to during relaxed breathing due to the build up of mucus in those areas.
3. Forced expiratory technique “Huff” (FET) = Combination of 1 or 2 “huffs” and periods of breathing control afterwards. A “huff” is done by opening your mouth and your throat and pushing air outwards as if the person is trying to fog up a mirror. Huffing works to loosen and mobilize excess bronchial secretions from the smaller airways towards the larger more central airways that are closer to the throat and mouth. When the secretions reach these central airways, a huff can stimulate a cough which can bring the secretions and mucus to the mouth allowing the individual to spit them up into a tissue or swallow them into the stomach.
   

Watch a video of ACBT being done with a physiotherapist here:

                                                        

Timing of Treatment:

ACBT is repeated until the huff becomes dry sounding and non-productive or the individual needs a rest. The total treatment time is usually between 10 and 30 minutes.
The order of the breathing exercises, the position of the individual and the length of time and number of treatments in a day will be determined and change depending on the day and whether the person is clinically stable or is going through an acute exacerbation of pulmonary infection at the time.

How and when can my child use ACBT?

• ACBT can be introduced to children with CF as “huffing games” by the age of about 2 years old
• Children can gradually start taking more responsibility for practicing this cycle of breathing around the ages of 8 or 9 allowing them to become a bit more independent
• It can be done in any position according to the requirements of each person. Most individuals prefer the sitting position as it is effective. 

Evidence for treatment:

If you would like to read more on any of these articles, simply clink the highlighted link beside each point to be directed to the article which is being referenced

• Studies have shown that ACBT can be used as an effective and efficient technique for mobilizing and clearing secretions in persons with cystic fibrosis.
• Pryor also found that hypoxaemia is neither caused nor increased by ACBT
• ACBT has been shown to increase lung function following the treatment
• In the long term (1 year) ACBT, PEP and oscillating PEP have been shown to be equivalent in airway clearance
• ACBT is not further improved by the addition of a PEP mask a flutter, mechanical percussions or high frequency chest wall osciallations

More information on how to perform ACBT here: www.acprc.org.uk/Data/Publication_Downloads/GL-05ACBT.pdf

Autogenic Drainage

What is Autogenic Drainage and how does it work?

Autogenic drainage is an airway clearance technique used to avoid airway closure that may be caused by coughing and maneuvering.It allows the individual to reach the highest possible airflow in different generations of bronchi by controlled breathing. The technique is based on physics, fluid dynamics, lung anatomy, respiratory physiology and breathing mechanics.

Airflow causes shearing forces that help to mobilize secretions that have built up on the airways. It is key to monitor the breaths going in and the breaths going out in order to create the necessary shearing forces in the right areas to clear the airways.

• During the breath in, the speed of the breath must not be too quick as to avoid moving secretions further into the lungs
• During the breath out, the optimal speed of airflow out must be matched with correct depth of the secretions within the lungs. To localize the secretions there are 3 feedback signals the person and anyone assisting with this technique should be aware of:

1. Sound of the secretions
2. Feeling within the chest
3. Proprioceptive feedback (Proprioception refers to the unconscious perception of movement and spatial orientation arising from stimuli within the body itself. These stimuli are detected by nerves within the body as well as canals in the ears.

  

Assisted Autogenic Drainage (AAD): For infants and non-cooperative individuals who suffer from cystic fibrosis

Done in a gentle and progressive way, using the person’s natural breathing pattern and stabilizing the infants abdominal wall. A gentle increase in pressure on the chest during the person’s breath is done to guide the breathing towards the desired lung volume. The hands gradually restrict the breath being taken in to stimulate the persons to breath out slightly more than the previous cycle. Feedback by feeling or hearing the secretions move.

Precautions:

• Special care should be taken of spastic or swollen airways in all airway clearance techniques. Secretions can be made easier to mobilize by means of pharmaceutical management.
• No excessive force is needed. This could lead to resistive responses by the individual.
• Patience is essential in this technique.
• The individual should be sitting upright and be supported to avoid a slumped sitting position which in turn may lead to some gastro-oesophageal (heart burn) reflex during treatment.

Postural Drainage, Percussion and Vibrations

What is postural drainage and how does it work?

• Postural drainage uses various body positions to allow gravity to assist in draining mucus from the outer airways of the lungs towards the central airways so that they can be cleared by a cough. Today modified postural drainage positions are the accepted method of treatment for children and adults with cystic fibrosis. Some of these modifications include eliminating the head down position as it increases the changes for gastroesophageal reflux, can be quite uncomfortable and has been shown to decrease oxygen saturation.
• While in position the individual can have their chest percussed for a few minutes. This can be followed or enhanced with deep breathing exercises, vibrations or huffing all working to cough up secretions.
• Percussions involves the carer cupping their hand and claps the chest or back firmly and rhythmically usually over a layer of clothing or a towel so that it is comfortable and not painful in any way. These claps work to unstick thick mucus on the airways so that they can be mobilized to the central airways to come up in a cough.
• Vibrations are a technique that consists of several short rhythmical squeezes and shakes to the chest while the individual exhales in order to mobilize secretions.
  

Please click here for a fact sheet for postural drainage and percussions for children and adults.

How and when can postural drainage be used?

Treatment is usually divided into 2-3 daily treatments. Positioning should be used while using other treatments such as ACBT, percussions and vibrations.

Evidence for the use of Modified Postural drainage:

Postural drainage has been used to treat individuals who suffer from cystic fibrosis since the 1950’s and it remained as the cornerstone of therapy until the 1980’s. Today modified postural drainage is the accepted method of treatment to avoid gasto-oesophageal reflux. There is skepticism towards postural drainage and if is efficient in the absence of many secretions which is becoming more and more common in the cystic fibrosis population.  Studies show that a modified physiotherapy regimen without head-down tilt in infants with cystic fibrosis was associated with fewer respiratory complications than infants who are treated with a head tilt. 

PEP mask, Oscillating PEP, Acapella and Flutter Devices

What is a PEP mask and how does it work?

PEP stands for Positive Expiratory Pressure and this mask works to gain back lung volume by mobilizing, transporting and evacuating secretions. By breathing out with a medium force through a resistance provided by the valve, the positive pressure allows airflow to get beneath the areas of mucus obstruction and move the mucus towards the larger airways where it can be coughed out.

How and when should PEP mask therapy be used?

After taking around 20 deep breaths through the PEP mask, the individual should do two to three huff coughs. This should be continued for around 20 minutes.

Using the PEP mask with children:

• PEP mask therapy can be self-administered but younger children may need some coaching from their parents and carers as it is easy to lose concentration and motivation.
• It is important to ensure the individual is making a tight seal around the mouthpiece with their lips to prevent leaking
• Babies do the treatment in a backwards leaning “sitting” position with their heads supported by the parent’s or carer’s arm while their other arm is used to hold the mask firmly on the babies face.

Please click on the video below to watch the PEP mask in use

                                     

What is the Acapella device and how does it work?

This device combines oscillating therapy and positive expiratory pressure therapy. Oscillating therapy are airway vibrations that help to shake or vibrate secretions off the walls of the airways. These vibrations are made by a lever with a magnet on the end inside the acapella. When air is blown out of the longs through the acapella valve, the airflow moves the lever back and forth creating vibrations to move into the airways. Please click on the video below to watch the acapella device in use.

                                       

What is a Flutter device and how does it work?

A pocket device that is used to improve ventilation and mucus production by providing positive expiratory pressure and oscillations from a steel ball that vibrates under a sealed cover. Oscillation in this device can be changed depending on the angle that its held in. This device is great for individuals who are able to do therapy alone. The person must be compliant, responsible and able to control the angle of the device according to the oscillations they can feel in their lungs. The fultter device is difficult to use with young children and manual chest physiotherapy might be more effective at these stages. 

Evidence-based:

• Short term studies with CF patients have shown the flutter to be similar to postural drainage and percussion or PEP
• Compared with autogenic drainage over a 4 week study period, the flutter showed no differences in sputum weight or lung function but viscoelasticity was significantly reduced with the flutter 
• Konstan et al. reported that up to 3 times more sputum was produced with the flutter than with postural drainage but again Pryor et al found that significantly more sputum was produced with the active cycle of breathing techniques than with the flutter but that similar sputum weights were found over a 24-hour period.
• Two studies found no difference in lung function or exercise tolerance in children with exacerbated CF in hospital who used the flutter compared to those who were treated with percussion, vibration and postural drainage
• One study over 1 year in children with CF compared the flutter with the positive expiratory pressure mask and found a greater decline in forced vital capacity, increased hospital admissions and increased antibiotic use with the flutter 
• Flutter valve therapy has been suggested as an acceptable alternative to standard CPT during in hospital care of patients with CF

Click below to watch a video of the flutter device being used:
                                          

Physiotherapy Management of a Newly Diagnosed Individual

Newborn screening for CF is now available in many countries and infants are now diagnosed with CF in the first 2 months of life often before they show any signs of symptoms. The focus of treatment for this group of people with CF is aimed at preservation of lung health, nutritional status and promotion of normal development (Rand et al, 2013). Physiotherapy treatment at this stage would consist of the promotion and education surrounding the benefits of physical activity, exercise and airway clearance techniques.

• Airway clearance techniques currently used for infants have a poor evidence based as they have not been extensively studied. They are generally adapted from techniques developed for older patients with chronic sputum retention.

The main types of airway clearance techniques used with infants with CF are infant PEP, modified postural drainage with percussion and assisted autogenic drainage. Patient preference is an important aspect of airway clearance technique management and although young infants are unable to voice their preference for one treatment over another, it is important that the treatment you use as a parent or a carer fits with your lifestyle. Physical activity and exercise is now emerging as perhaps the most important aspect of care in CF (Rand et al, 2013). Physical activities aim to alter air distribution, alter breathing patterns, increase expiratory flow and create the shearing force to enhance mucus clearance.

• Some examples of current infant treatments that are beneficial include swimming, infant massage, baby gym and music classes (Rand et al, 2013).

A healthy active lifestyle should be taught and demonstrated from an early age.

To find out more and to sign up to receive a parent pack, visit: www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk/life-with-cystic-fibrosis/support-available/new-diagnosis

Check Point: Try these self-assessment questions below

1. Pep talk for kids with CF:                                                                     2. What is CF? Video for kids who have CF:

EXERCISE

It is important to understand that not all physical activity is considered exercise. Be aware of the difference between exercise and physical activity (CASPERSEN 1985). We encourage you to make a conscious effort to engage in planned activities regularly to become an exerciser!

                           

Benefits and Risks

All exercisers should be aware of the benefits and risks involved in their leisure-time physical activity in order to self-motivate, and pre-plan for known dangers (Ruf 2010). Individuals with CF are particularly vulnerable with respect to their reduced pulmonary function (Webb 1999; Orenstein 2005); hence, we suggest adopting preventative strategies such as supervision, and putting emergency protocols in place.

In addition to the benefits outlined specifically for those with CF universal exercise benefits are applicable. For instance, exercise has been shown to generate positive effects on mood and lower anxiety. Research also tells us that good experiences of physical activity can promote self-efficacy thereby increasing one’s confidence (Orenstein 2005; Swisher et al 2015). Such experiences have psychological benefits that those living with cystic fibrosis may also enjoy and so enable them to have similar experiences to their healthy peers.

Exercise Prescription

Recently, there has been a significant amount of research regarding the use of exercise as “medicine” to benefit individuals living with cystic fibrosis (Orenstein 2005; Pedersen 2015). The importance of these studies is to deduce the physical capacity at which individuals with CF are capable of enduring. Furthermore, an meta-analysis of the results allows for clinicians to determine appropriate guidelines specifically designed for individuals with cystic fibrosis (Swisher et al. 2015).

Swisher et al. (2015) developed specific exercise prescriptions for individuals of all ages who live with cystic fibrosis; these can be viewed in the table below. It should be noted that, although these guidelines were developed by exercise and medical professionals, the onus is on the individual and their supportive medical and social teams to design a suitable personal programme; the exercises should clearly fit the needs, capabilities, and safety of the person performing the activity.

Exercise is often prescribed as a combined treatment for CF along with traditional respiratory physiotherapy techniques because movements are able to affect the physiological function of the body. For example, the movement of the body during exercise may help to condition the muscles thereby helping an individual to maintain correct posture. Having the correct posture can prevent curvatures in the spine that can ultimately lead to compression of the torso, which affects the ability to expand the chest during inhalation. Schindel et al. (2015) examined this idea in detail, with a gold standard study design, and their research suggests that maintaining posture through mobility, stretching, and aerobic exercise can positively affect lung function, particularly for those with cystic fibrosis. Furthermore, Pedersen and Saltin (2015) explain that the movements produced by exercise can stimulate optimal function of the mucociliary transport system, within the lungs, to aid in easier clearance of excess mucus due to the disease. With less mucus in the lungs there may be less chance of chest infection therefore enabling a better quality of normal breathing to be experienced. Such improvements in ventilation would allow the body to naturally increase the amount of air available for gaseous exchange in the lungs, thereby increasing oxygen into the blood, and ultimately successfully amending the individual’s oxygen saturation measures (Kriemler et al. 2016). Aside from exercise helping functions directly related to the pulmonary system it may also be used to decrease the chance of acquiring co-morbidities such as osteoporosis and diabetes.

It seems that half of the battle to successful exercising is making it fun and enjoyable. The ability to choose the type of activity is one way to give individuals with CF autonomy in their lives, and leads to greater personal satisfaction, confidence, and adherence (Orenstein and Higgins 2005). This is especially important to implement early on because it can help the individual to adopt the behaviour as a long term healthy habit, and even encourage continuance throughout one’s life. Another way to bring about intrinsic motivation is to encourage the exerciser with appropriate music. A recent study showed that different types of music might be used to help distract the mind from thoughts about their high level of exertion and even reduce vital signs (Calik-Kutukcu et al. 2016). Both motivational and relaxation music appear to have equal effect regarding these outcomes, therefore it is a personal preference as to which sound to listen to (Calik-Kutukcu et al. 2016). Such elements of choice provide the exerciser with another opportunity to participate in the decision-making aspect of exercise selection.

Check Point: Try these self-assessment questions below

1. What is the difference between physical activity and exercise?

2. How can exercise be used to help the physical function and overall lifestyle of those living with CF?

3. Who should you consult to create a daily exercise routine?

EMERGING RESEARCH

Therapies for Lung Disease

Lung disease associated with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the cyclical pattern of mucous retention, infection, inflammation, and tissue damage. There are multiple therapies that address each one of the stages in that pattern (Kreindler, 2010). Below are some of the emerging therapies available for CF patients.

Mucous Clearance Therapies

While there are a number of physical techniques for mucous clearance, the emerging drug therapy research provides the CF community with pharmacological advances that create thinner mucous, and hydrate the airway surfaces to encourage easier mucous removal (Kreindler, 2010).

For example, Dornase Alfa, (marketed as Pulmozyme® by Genentech), acts as a mucolytic, which degrades the extracellular DNA that causes thick mucous in the airways of CF patients (Kreindler, 2010). The breakdown of the extracellular DNA helps with airway clearance, and has shown to improve lung function

Airway Surface Rehydration Therapies

Hypertonic Saline

Contribution to CF airway disease can be associated with increased sodium absorption from the airway surface liquid and the ensuing decrease in airway surface liquid volume (Kreindler, 2010). Inhalation of hypertonic saline can be used to counteract the airway surface liquid decrease by drawing water into the airway lumen (Kreindler, 2010). This type of therapy has shown to improve clearance of mucous, overall lung function, and reduction in pulmonary exacerbation frequency in patient with CF (Kreindler, 2010).

Mannitol

Dry-powder Mannitol (Marketed as Bronchitol, Pharmaxis) is an alternative therapy to hypertonic saline (Kreindler, 2010). As a non-absorbable sugar alcohol, Mannitol aids in mucous clearance by rehydrating the airway surface and increasing the volume of airway surface liquid (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). In a Phase III clinical trial, a sustained increase in FEV1 and decrease in pulmonary exacerbations were found, however, adverse effects including cough and coughing with blood occurred (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). From current studies, Mannitol has proven safe for CF patients that are able to tolerate the therapy (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). While the therapy has not been clearly proven to be effective in children, a Phase II clinical trial is underway (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

P-1037

CFTR interacts with proteins, including the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) and due to normal inhibitory function loss; there is over-stimulation of ENaC and hyper-absorption of sodium, which leads to the dehydration of the airway surface and mucous (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Currently, there is a Phase II clinical trial progression for P-1037; an inhaled ENaC blocker (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Hyperkalaemia has been noted as a potential side effect of P-1037 due to renal exposure, and therefore, a low dose is required (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Anti-Infective Therapies

In Cystic Fibrosis, antibiotics are utilized under four conditions: prophylactically, infection eradication, chronic infection suppression, and exacerbation treatment (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). CF pathogens found in the lungs vary with age, where S. aureus is the most common in infancy, H. influenzae increasing in childhood, and P. aeruginosa being the most common pathogen by adolescence and young adulthood (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Prophylaxis

UK and European guidelines currently recommend anti-staphylococcal antibiotics starting at diagnosis until approximately 3 years old as it has proven to reduce methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) incidence, however, clinical outcome improvements have not been confirmed (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

In contrast to this, USA recommendations are currently against the use of prophylactic anti-staphylococcal antibiotics due to results in one trial that reported increased pseudomonas infection rates (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Further clinical trials of quality need to be completed to resolve the contrast between these recommendations for prophylactic therapy (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Early Infection Eradication

In terms of infection, P. aeruginosa is the organism of most concern, due to the high risk it will become a chronic infection if not treated aggressively (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Lung function decline can be associated with the inflammatory reaction of a chronic infection (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Early eradication programs are comprised of +/- systemic antibiotics, but can vary between countries (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Inhaled tobramycin is used initially in North America, however, a multicentre trial in Europe is analyzing whether IV or oral antibiotics administered with nebulized colistin are of higher quality (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Chronic Infection Suppression

The treatment emphasis changes from infection eradication to infection suppression once it becomes a chronic condition, and the intention is to decrease inflammation (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Current research has concentrated on antimicrobial delivery through inhalation, which allows for high concentrations of the drug to be transported to the infection site, all while decreasing adverse effects and optimizing bacterial elimination (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). However, some adverse effects have been recognized, such as possible bronchospasm, displeasing taste, and length of time required to administer the drug (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Currently, tobramycin, colistin, and aztreonam are nebulized antibiotics used to treat P. aeruginosa, and are often used in an alternating approach (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Patients with chronic P. aeruginosa were treated with aztreonam for inhalation solution (AZLI) in an 18-month safety and efficacy open-label trial, and results showed decreased bacterial burden (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Another open-label trial compared the use of nebulized tobramycin with AZLI, and found significant lung function improvement and decreased pulmonary exacerbations over three course treatments in the AZLI group compared to the tobramycin group (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). In this trial, AZLI when compared to tobramycin, showed an equal reduction in P. aeruginosa and was also well tolerated by the patients (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

In other research, many additional agents are being investigated. A trial for a once-a-day liposomal formula of amikacin is underway, and thought to be beneficial as the drug would be activated at the site of infection due to the liposome breakdown by bacterial rhamnolipids (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Recently, levofloxacin inhalation solution (MP-376) has proven to be equally as effective as tobramycin, and well-tolerated by patients (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Exacerbation Treatment

Pulmonary exacerbations are groupings of symptoms and decline in lung function and depending on the severity, are treated using oral or IV antibiotics (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Patients will often receive a 2-week course of IV antibiotic, but research from one study has shown that maximal lung function is achieved following 10 days, and there is no advantage to continuing treatment past the 10 day mark. The CF Foundation in the USA has focused largely on this subject in a multicentre research programme (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Non-antibiotic Treatment Options to Bacterial Infection

OligoG

In CF airways, chronic P. aeruginosa grows in a biofilm, which consists of airway mucins, exopolysaccharide, and a matrix of neutrophil DNA, and is largely resistant to antibiotic treatment (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). OligoG is a sea-weed-derived alginate oligosaccharide formulated into a dry-powder agent, which obtains both anti-mucolytic and anti-biofilm characteristics and is currently in phase II trials (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

IgY Antibodies

In a small clinical trial, it is suggested that protection against P. aeruginosa could be gained via IgY acquired from immunized hen eggs, and there is a multicentre trial underway which investigates the IgY antibody delivered as a gargle solution (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Anti-Inflammatory Therapies

Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Agents

Ibuprofen has shown some improvement in younger patients with milder CF, however, current research has shown difficulties with dosing, where low-dose ibuprofen can encourage inflammation, and high-dose ibuprofen causes adverse side effects (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). In a Cochrane review completed recently, ibuprofen in higher doses showed slower lung function decline and decreased hospital stay, but long-term adverse effects were not investigated (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Therapies Targeting the CFTR Defect

Research targeting the CFTR defect focuses on three different groups of drug therapy which include potentiators, correctors, and read-through agents (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). With potentiator drug therapy, the CFTR channel activity is enhanced so long as it is located correctly (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Corrector drug therapy is used to repair defects that may include misfolding of the F508del protein, which allows cell surface trafficking (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Lastly, read-through agents produce a full length protein by permitting a ribosome to dismiss a premature termination codon (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). In current research, these three types of drug therapies have either advanced to or through clinical trials (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Potentiators

Cystic Fibrosis treatment progress in more recent years has gained strength due to the development of ivacaftor, where the most common CF gene mutation (Asp551Gly (G551D)) has seen positive results in clinical trial with this agent (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Improvements were seen in exacerbation rate, quality of life, weight, and FEV1 (~10% absolute improvement) during the ivacaftor trial, which has led to a license for use in CF patients aged 6 years and older (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Further to this, a clinical trial in children ages 2-5 found similar results in sweat chloride; the CFTR biomarker (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Correctors

In a 2012 study, Lumacaftor (VX-809) was found to restore CFTR function to roughly 15% of CFTR level in vitro, however, this did not show significant improvements in F508del patients (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Further to this, single-agent ivacaftor did not show significant changes, which was hypothesized to be a consequence of limited CFTR available at the cell surface (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Due to this, there has been investigation into the advantage of combined lumicaftor/ivacaftor, and a phase III traffic and transport trial resulted in FEV1 improvements and decreased pulmonary exacerbations (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). There is a phase III trial underway in a range of mutations for a new corrector, VX-661, which will be in combination with ivacaftor, however, there is a concern of cost, which may cause problems for national healthcare systems, and there is more research needed in order to support and manage this issue (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Read-through Agents

Production of a full length CFTR can be a result of Ataluren, which promotes ribosomal read-through of premature termination codons (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). In a phase III trial, there were no significant results seen between the ataluren and placebo groups, however, notable benefits were seen in patients who received aminoglycoside antibiotics through inhalation (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). There is a second phase III trial underway in patients 6 years and older not receiving aminoglycoside antibiotics (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

There has been conditional approval of read-through agents granted for other inherited diseases, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, as read-through agents consist of therapeutic potential in stop mutation diseases (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

CFTR Gene Therapy

There have been over 20 clinical trials in gene therapy since the CFTR gene was discovered, however many of these trials have focused on molecular or electrophysiological defects and single dose (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Recently, the UK CF Gene Therapy Consortium (GTC) has coordinated a phase IIb clinical trial of liposomal CFTR gene therapy where patients were administered nebulized doses, every month, for one year, or a placebo (Edmondson and Davies, 2016). Results showed that patients receiving the intervention had FEV1 stabilization, and there was a 3.7% statistical difference between intervention and placebo groups and further trials will investigate whether higher or more frequent doses can make additional improvements (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

There is another approach to gene therapy, where the aim is to correct opposed to replace the gene, and a phase Ib clinical trial of nebulized mRNA repair molecule QR010 is currently in progress (Edmondson and Davies, 2016).

Check Point: Try these self-assessment questions below

 

1. List the four stages of the cyclical pattern that occurs in cystic fibrosis lung disease.

2. How does hypertonic saline inhalation rehydrate the airway surface?

3. What are the four conditions that anti-infective therapies are used for in cystic fibrosis treatment?

4. Describe how potentiators work in targeted CFTR gene defect therapy.

ACADEMIC INSTITUTION INVOLVEMENT

Cystic fibrosis should not stop your child enjoying a full and rewarding school experience. Compromises may need to be found, and adjustments made, but working closely with the school and the CF tem will help to ensure that your child’s education is not limited by CF.

Questions to consider when looking for a school:

• Does the school have experience with children with CF?
• Are there any other children with cystic fibrosis at the school?
• My child has to take enzyme supplements with snacks and meals, what is your policy on this?
• My child needs a high fat snack between meals, how will this work with your healthy eating policy?
• If my child needs to do physiotherapy exercises, would you be able to accommodate this?
  

Think about creating an individual healthcare plan:

When starting school, it is a good common sense idea for your child to have a individual healthcare plan (Well at School 2016). These are developed to help school staff to understand what a particular medical condition means for a child at school and should include information about CF, how it affects you child, treatment details, dietary needs and contact details. Many schools have their own individual healthcare plan templates but if not, a healthcare plan template is available on the cystic fibrosis website

                                         

Communication

Communication is key to ensuring children with CF are appropriately cared for and all relevant staff should know about your child's needs. Ensure the school keeps you informed about changes in your child's symptoms, missed creon doses etc. And you should decide how you want this communicated eg. Communication books (cystic fibrosis Trust, 2015).

                                             

Infection Risk

Coughs and Colds
Avoiding infection is a very common and valid worry and risk can be minimised by encouraging effective infection control measures and asking staff to keep children with coughs and colds apart, where possible, from your child.

Environment

• Certain environments-mud, stagnant water, hate that have fungi which can be harmful to children with CF.

• This can impact on playing outdoors etc.
• Some minor practical adjustments can be made- teachers can ensure water is always fresh, the table is cleaned and dried every day and there is fresh sand for sand play (Cystic Fibrosis Trust, 2015).
  

Creon

• Schools have their own systems of storing and administering
• Ensure to communicate effectively with the school to decide what system will work for your child
• Getting creon dose right can be difficult, particularly when a child first starts school
• Ensure to keep in touch with the school about your child's eating habits and creon dose.
  

• Your child may be asked about their creon by other children. Speak to the school about whether you would like your child to take their creon in private. Many parents don’t want their child to feel that CF is something to be ashamed of so they don’t hide the treatment.

Diet

At school this is usually an Option of school meals or a packed lunch. The school can make the menu available to you and the CF dietitian will be able to help work out the creon doses with you. Your child is most likely to need other snacks during the day and this should be discussed with the school.

Attendance

Many parents worry that their child will be penalised for absence. A lot of schools have absence policies in place and rewards for 100% attendance and for children with CF it seems like they are setup to fail on this one. Speak to the head teacher as they are most likely to be flexible on this. Liaise with the school about the best arrangement for your child and their attendance. Parents have said that sometimes it is difficult to get to school on time, particularly if their child is struggling with mucus and physiotherapy is taking longer- Schools are usually sympathetic about this and feel better that the child comes to school late rather than not at all (Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 2016).

Top Tips From Parents

TRANSITION FROM PAEDIATRIC TO ADULT CARE

What is transition in Cystic Fibrosis?

Transition in CF has been described as “a purposeful, planned preparation of patients, families and caregivers for transfer of the patient to an adult program” (Flume, 2001).

Please click on this link to watch a Cystic Fibrosis transition film:

www.rbht.nhs.uk/patients/condition/cystic-fibrosis/cystic-fibrosis-transition/transition-film/

Need For Transfer

Why do children need to transfer to an adult service?

Cystic fibrosis is no longer a condition the only affects children. Individuals with cystic fibrosis have a greater lifespan, and there are currently more adults with cystic fibrosis than children.
There is a requirement to react to the developing maturity of adolescents with cystic fibrosis. They must be involved in decisions regarding their care and treatment. This should begin as soon as possible in the paedriatric service and continue within the adult service.
Adolescents may not realise the need for transfer to begin with but it will become relevant to them as they mature, gain independence, interests and develop new relationships.
They will have to deal with managing their health and treatment along with education, career and relationships in the future. Therefore, it is necesssary that they start to understand how their feelings and attitude about their health and treatment will infuence their future well-being (Cystic Fibrosis Trust, 2013).

Differences Between Services

What differences are there between the paediatric and the adult CF services?

The paediatric service team work mainly with the parents rather than the child with CF. The parents are shown how to care for their child and manage their treatment. The childs decisions are made for them rather than with them. However, this gradually changes as the child develops and they will activily engage in making decisions with regard to their care (Fegran et al. 2013).
The adult service works directly with the individual with CF. The individuals should now be involved in the planning and delivery of health services under the guidance of the CF team (Oppong-Odiseng, 1997; Dodd, 1996; DH, 2006). The team aims to incorporate the treatment with the patient’s lifestyle and give emotional support to the individual as issues arise.
Parents and carers may still remain involved, however their role becomes supportive once the individual has transferred.

Timing

When should the discussion of transition begin?

The discussion of transition should begin at least a year before the transfer to adult services occurs. This provides the individual and their parent/caregiver with sufficient time to consider feelings and settle any worries either may have (Cystic Fibrosis Trust, 2013).

When does the transfer to adult services happen?

The timing of transfer is different for individuals and is dependent on their requirements. However, to prevent premature or late transfer, it is advised that transfer should occur between the ages of 14 and 18 (Conway, 2004).

Barriers

Transition to adult care for young people with CF can be ineffective when there is:

• A lack of support of the transition process by any of the participants, which include the health care teams, adolescents and families, and the health care system;
• Limited preparation for transition;
• Lack of regular communication between participants (Towns and Bell, 2010).

Effective Transitioning

Preparation, planning and communication by every participant (healthcare team, family and the individual) are key for a successful transition. This could be through ensuring the individual has been educated about CF and has the skills training to manage their long-term condition. If not, it is important to contact the relevant CF team member to address any concerns.

Specific CF clinics were another componenet found to be important for successful transitions. Your CF team should provide you with the relevant information about these clinics.

It has been shown that young people with CF experience an effective transition when these is an are the opportunity for a joint meeting with the paediatric and adult services, a visit to the adult service before transition and having their first appointment made for them. If this is not the case, this should be highlighted with the CF team to ensure optimal transition (Craig et al. 2007, Steinbeck & Brodie 2006).

Expected Changes

What changes may I expect as a parent?

Adolescents gradually become more independent and they are capable of making important decisions for themselves such as education or career path. However, they may still require support in more difficult choices such as ones involving medical treatments and surgeries.

It can be difficult as a parent to step back and allow adolescents to take charge of their care. Adolescents may be asked for advice, however this may be ignored. It is important to remember that all parents experience this as their children mature.

It is important to be able to take a step back and discuss with the child to what is it they want. They might want to continue discussing health issues as they arise but might not want to be told what to do. The role of advisor will now change to that of a counselor.

You may not always agree with the adolescents’ opinions, however it must be respected. This can be challenging for a parent but most adult services are familiar with these problems and are there for support during difficult times (Cystic Fibrosis Trust, 2013).

Role of Physiotherapists

What are Physiotherapists’ roles in transition?

• To communicate with the adult service about each individual’s specific treatment program to ensure effective transition.
• To promote self-management (hyperlink to “what is self-management?’ below) and give information about the adult service to the individual.
• To remain in contact with the adult service for the first year after transfer to adult services to ensure optimum healthcare.
• To listen to what the patient has to say and support them and their family.
• To respect the individuals decision whatever it may be (Button et al. 2016).

Further Web Resources on Transition

www.rbht.nhs.uk/patients/condition/cystic-fibrosis/cystic-fibrosis-transition/web-resources-for-transition-patients/

cf.kch.nhs.uk/transition/what_we_do/

Check Point: Try these self-assessment questions below

Checklist to ensure you understand transition

     1. What is meant by transition in CF and why does transition happen happen?

     2. What is the differences between child and adult services?

     4. When does transition begin?

     5. When does transfer to adult services happen?

Checklist to support effective transition for the individual with CF

1. Have they been offered the opportunity for a joint meeting between both services?
2. Have they visited the adult service before transfer?
3. Has the first appointment been arranged for them in the adult service?
4. Do you and the individual with CF understand what is meant by self-management?
5. Are they self-managing their Physiotherapy techniques appropriate to their age?

SELF-MANAGEMENT

What is self-management?

Self-management can be described as helping individuals and their families to monitor and change treatment requirements for their condition, and manage the effect it has on their lives. The goal is to achieve optimal health and to fit their treatment plan into their everyday lives around a flexible management plan. It is the role of the entire healthcare team to support this (Newman, 2004).

When should individuals with Cystic Fibrosis be able to self manage their physiotherapy and exercise clearance technique?

CONCLUSION

Overall, the aim of this online resource was to gather valuable information about life with CF, including the role of the physiotherapist, and condense it into one easy to read site. Advances in our understanding of CF mean that there are more effective treatments, so people with the condition are living longer than ever. However, the aging process can bring its own challenges. This site has highlighted key information on six important transitional aspects of living with CF for parents and carers and the role of the physiotherapist throughout this journey. This included emotional wellness, physiotherapy treatments, exercise and starting school.
It is hoped that the information here will have helped to create a greater understanding of the condition of CF, highlighted the benefits of physiotherapy and helped to settle the worrying minds of parents and carers. Throughout this site, we have produced further resources to broaden your understanding of certain aspects and treatments of CF to help your child live life to the full and embrace life with CF.
What next?
We hope that this page has helped the reader to develop a better understanding of CF, however if you are looking for further information, please visit the CF Trust UK.