Cystic fibrosis (CF) targets the respiratory and digestive systems by affecting the bodily cells that secrete fluids. This means a that production of sweat, mucus, and digestive fluids are compromised in those with cystic fibrosis. Characterized as a genetic, progressive disorder with no known cure, CF gradually damages the intestines, lungs, liver, and pancreas.

The Mayo Clinic claims that 1000 new Cystic fibrosis cases are reported yearly in the U.S., and require regular treatment of symptoms, which result from bodily fluids becoming so thick and sticky that they create natural lubrication blockages to ducts and passageways to essential organs (i.e., lungs and pancreas) throughout the body. These lubrication blockages can cause infection, malnutrition, and even respiratory failure in CF patients.

Cystic fibrosis impacts cells that secret vital fluids, which explains why patients are prone to the following symptoms:

1. Breathing difficulties

Cystic fibrosis often makes breathing labored due to thickening mucus and fluids in the lungs and respiratory tract. Breathing troubles, chronic cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath can occur when sinus and nasal passages become chronically blocked.

2. Excessive perspiration
Parents of children with cystic fibrosis often report a salty or sweaty taste on their children’s skin when they kiss them. As strange as this sounds, cystic fibrosis strikes the sweat glands (or epithelial cells) and can leave a sweaty glaze on the skin, particularly when the temperature is hot or humid.

3. Repeat infections
Cystic fibrosis is a progressive disease, which means the symptoms are often the cause of more serious, life-threatening conditions—including gallstones, liver disease, (swollen pancreas) pancreatitis, and diabetes, as well as respiratory infections like sinusitis and emphysema.

4. Digestive complaints
In addition to sweat and mucus, digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas are impacted by cystic fibrosis. Without adequate lubrication, malnutrition and a series of digestive issues can crop up—including constipation or slippery stools, decreased ability to gain weight, nausea, decreased appetite, and abdominal cramps and swelling.