Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a hereditary disease which causes the body to produce excessively thick mucus. This has significant consequences on the lungs and other major organs including the pancreas, liver, kidneys and intestine.
Common long-term problems include coughing up mucus, reduced lung capacity and recurrent lung infections. CF is also associated with other chronic complications including low body weight, decreased bone density, low muscle mass, liver disease, depression, and CF-related diabetes. These factors can act as barriers to participating in physical activity.
When living with CF an active lifestyle is an important component of disease management and promoting better quality of life. Some benefits of physical activity include:
- Improved lung function
- Aids airway clearance
- Increased skeletal muscle mass
- Improved bone density
- Reduced fatigue
- Improved self-confidence
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
- Improved mood and quality of life
If you or your child is living with Cystic Fibrosis the best way to increase physical activity is to enlist the support of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist. They are qualified health professionals who can advise on the optimal level of physical activity and monitor CF-related safety concerns.
If you would like further professional advice regarding physical activity for Cystic Fibrosis, we can help. Contact Rural Health on (02) 5926 3806 or book online to see an Accredited Exercise Physiologist.
