Cystic fibrosis and preventing infections.

When you have cystic fibrosis (CF), you’re at higher risk to get lung and sinus infections. That’s because in CF, thick, sticky mucus builds up in your airways. Mucus traps germs. It makes it easier for them to grow. Your body’s immune system tries to fight these trapped germs. But your lungs can inflame or swell.

Infections can cause CF symptoms to get worse at times. That’s called a flare-up. Over time, repeat infections can cause lung damage. Lung infections are one of the most serious problems for people with CF. So it’s very important to try to prevent them. You, your family and caregivers can take simple steps to help avoid germs. That can help you stay healthier.

Watch for symptoms.

Watch for common signs of lung and sinus infections. If you have symptoms like these, call your CF care team:

• Changes in what your mucus looks and feels like
• Changes in your breathing
• Chills
• Cough
• Fever
• Headaches and body aches
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Stuffy or runny nose

Some symptoms of infections can be confused with CF flare-ups. So see your doctor before you self-treat an infection or take over-the-counter medications.

Follow your treatment plan.

If you get sick, your doctor may prescribe medications like antibiotics to fight your infection. These medications may have special instructions on how to take them. Be sure to finish the entire antibiotic course exactly as prescribed. Take all of them even if you start to feel better. The infection may come back if you stop early. That could make it even harder to treat.

Prevent infections.

There are simple things you can do every day to help keep your lungs clearer and prevent infections.

• Wash your hands often. Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cover your cough or sneeze. This can help prevent germs from spreading to others, including others with CF.
• Keep a safe distance. Stay away from people who are sick if possible. If you can’t, try to stay at least six feet away from anyone who is sick. Also, try to stay away from other people with CF.
• Don’t share personal items. That can help germs spread. So don’t share objects like cups, forks and spoons, toys and nebulizers.
• Clean and disinfect your nebulizer after every time you use it. Follow instructions from your doctor or nurse.
• Stay on track with your daily CF treatments. If other family members have CF, do your treatments in separate rooms.
• Keep up with vaccinations. Help your own immune system fight off harmful germs. Get all vaccinations at the right times. This includes the flu and pneumonia vaccines. Remind your family and friends to get vaccinated, too.
• Stay active. Exercise helps to clear mucus in the lungs. That can help prevent infections.
• Take care of your entire body. Get enough sleep. Eat healthy foods.
• Take care of yourself when you travel. Bring a mask, hand sanitizer and bottled water. Bring disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces like armrests and seatbelt buckles.