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Why choose Geisinger for cystic fibrosis care?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) affects the lungs, the digestive system and other organ systems — so caring for it takes a team working together across specialties. We bring pulmonology, gastroenterology, nutrition, nephrology and other specialists together, so you don’t have to manage it alone.

There's no cure for cystic fibrosis yet, but treatment has come a long way. Our specialists stay current with the latest options, from respiratory therapies and nutritional support to newer medications. Day to day, that means helping you breathe easier, stay nourished and feel supported in your daily life. Because cystic fibrosis is lifelong, we build care around you.

All you need to get started is a referral from your primary care provider. From there, you’ll have a team that knows your cystic fibrosis and knows you. 

 

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FAQs

What’s cystic fibrosis (CF)?

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition that affects the cells that make mucus, sweat and digestive juices. With cystic fibrosis, those fluids are thick and sticky instead of thin and slippery, so they clog passageways in the lungs and digestive system. It's a lifelong condition that's managed rather than cured — and treatment has advanced a great deal in recent years. 

What causes cystic fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis is genetic. It happens when a person inherits 2 changed copies of the CFTR gene — 1 from each parent. The CFTR gene normally helps balance salt and water in the body. When it doesn’t work as it should, the body makes thick, sticky mucus instead of thin fluid. 

What are symptoms of cystic fibrosis?

Symptoms can vary, but common ones include:

  • A constant cough that brings up thick mucus
  • Wheezing or trouble breathing
  • Frequent lung or sinus infections
  • Constipation, diarrhea or other digestive issues
  • Being underweight or having trouble gaining weight
  • Very salty-tasting skin or sweat
  • Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes

How much cystic fibrosis affects you can vary. Some people have symptoms from birth, while others may not notice anything until their teen or young-adult years. Symptoms can also stay light for a while and build up over time. Your cystic fibrosis care team can help make sense of your symptoms and what will help most.

How does cystic fibrosis affect the body?

Cystic fibrosis affects nearly every system in the body, not just the lungs. The thick, sticky mucus that builds up in the airways — driving a cough and frequent infections — can also block ducts in the pancreas, making it harder to digest food.

Over time, cystic fibrosis can also affect the liver, intestines, sinuses, bones, kidneys and reproductive system. Because cystic fibrosis affects so many systems, regular monitoring across these areas is a core part of care. 

How do doctors diagnose cystic fibrosis?

Most people are diagnosed as babies through newborn screening, which is standard across the U.S. A sweat test (which measures the salt in your sweat), along with blood and genetic testing, helps confirm it. Some people aren't diagnosed until later, when symptoms point a doctor toward testing. 

How do doctors treat cystic fibrosis?

There’s no one treatment plan for cystic fibrosis. Your care team designs a plan around your symptoms and will adjust it to your needs. However, your treatment will usually combine a few approaches, like:

  • Respiratory therapies, including airway clearance (sometimes called chest physical therapy), to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs
  • Medications, including newer CFTR modulator therapies that — for people with certain gene mutations — target the root cause instead of just the symptoms
  • Nutritional therapies to support healthy weight and digestion
  • Guidance on lifestyle steps that keep you healthy

Do I need a referral for cystic fibrosis care?

Yes. You'll need an order from your primary care provider (PCP) before scheduling an appointment with the cystic fibrosis team. 

Cystic fibrosis care at Geisinger 

Cystic fibrosis is a lifelong condition, so the care behind it should be comprehensive and consistent. Here, you have access to:

  • Innovative treatments from experts: Your cystic fibrosis care draws on pulmonology, gastroenterology, nutrition, nephrology and other specialties working together. As new therapies and medications become available, your specialists fold them into your care plan.
  • Cystic Fibrosis Foundation accreditation: Geisinger Medical Center is an accredited CF care center through the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, a national standard that reflects specialized, team-based care. 
  • Care close to home: With locations in central and northeastern Pennsylvania, expert cystic fibrosis care is nearby and backed by a nationally recognized health system.