Symptoms

A well known first sign of CF is a salty taste of the skin.
 * First Signs:**
 * Parents can taste it when kissing a child

**Respiratory symptoms:**
 * 1) **Thick mucus clogs tubes that carry air from lungs.**
 * 2) __ Causes __


 * Wheezing
 * Lung and sinus infection
 * Constant Cough


 * Digestive symptoms:**
 * 1) **The same thick mucus can block Digestive enzymes.**
 * 2) __Causes__
 * Can't fully absorb nutrients from food
 * Pour weight gain
 * Distended abdomen from constipation


 * Testing/Screening for Cystic Fibrosis:**
 * Genetic Carrier Testing- this test helps determine carreiers of the gene and see if they are able to pass on the disorder. To have cystic fibrosis both parents need to be carriers.
 * Newborn Screening- newborns who are screened for this could benefit from early treatment that canimprove growth,improve the functions of lungs, reduce hospital stays, and possibly add years to life. While it isnt a definitive diagnosis test but it could later on lead to tests that could confirm whether or not your child has the disorder.
 * Sweat Test- This test measures the concentration of salt in a person’s sweat. A high salt level means that they have cystic fibrosis.