What causes cystic fibrosis?

• bacterial infection

• positive sweat test

• a mutation in the CFTR gene

• autoimmune response

Answer explanation

Cystic fibrosis is caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, which leads to the production of thick mucus in various organs. This genetic defect is the primary cause of the disease, unlike bacterial infections or autoimmune responses.

Cystic fibrosis primarily affects which organs?

• Lungs and digestive system

• Heart and Blood vessels

• Spleen and Renal

• Brain and spinal cord.

Answer explanation

Cystic fibrosis primarily affects the lungs and digestive system, leading to thick mucus production that obstructs airflow and impairs digestion. This makes 'Lungs and digestive system' the correct choice.

Which of the following is a common respiratory symptom of CF?

• Dry throat with no cough.

• Wheezing with no mucus production.

• Chest pain without mucus

• Persistent coughing with mucus.

Answer explanation

Cystic fibrosis (CF) commonly leads to persistent coughing with mucus due to thickened secretions in the lungs. This symptom is a hallmark of CF, unlike the other options which do not typically occur in this condition.

What digestive issue is common in CF patients?

• Malabsorption of nutrients

• Constipation without mucus buildup

• Overproduction of bile.

• Excess insulin secretion.

Answer explanation

Cystic fibrosis (CF) leads to thick mucus that obstructs pancreatic enzymes, causing malabsorption of nutrients. This is a common digestive issue in CF patients, making the correct answer 'Malabsorption of nutrients'.

Which therapy helps clear mucus from the lungs in CF?

• Nebulizers only

• Exercise

• Chest physiotherapy

• Antibiotics.

Answer explanation

Chest physiotherapy is specifically designed to help clear mucus from the lungs in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. It involves techniques that aid in loosening and expelling mucus, improving lung function.

Why are CF patients at increased risk for lung infections?

• Reduced blood flow to the lungs

• Thick mucus traps bacteria in the lungs

• Constant coughing

• Too much chest physiotherapy

Answer explanation

CF patients have thick mucus in their lungs, which traps bacteria and makes it difficult to clear infections. This leads to an increased risk of lung infections, making the choice 'Thick mucus traps bacteria in the lungs' correct.

What kind of medications are used to help CF patients digest food?

• Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy medications.

• Antibiotics for lung infections

• Insulin for blood sugar control

• Antacids for stomach acid reduction

Answer explanation

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy medications are essential for CF patients as they help in digesting food properly, compensating for the lack of natural enzymes due to pancreatic dysfunction.

Why is a high-calorie diet recommended for CF patients?

• It's not recommended, they're fine.

• To reduce mucus production.

• To strengthen lung function.

• They need extra energy due to malabsorption and increased metabolic demands.

Answer explanation

A high-calorie diet is essential for CF patients because they experience malabsorption of nutrients and have increased metabolic demands, requiring extra energy to maintain their health and support lung function.