The most severe effects are found in the digestive and respiratory tracts.  Some less severe effects are found in the sweat glands and the reproductive system.     The symptoms of CF develop slowly, this means that usually the presenting symptoms of the disease aren't present until the age of 3 or 4.  Symptoms involving the digestive system is usually the first to appear. SYMPTOMS IN DIGESTIVE TRACT     -mucus in meconium ileus(a       newborn's first feces.)   -bulky, oily, foul-smelling feces   -ravenous hunger   -underweight   -not average height   -malnutrition (if not treated)   -anemia   -bloating   -appetitie loss (if not treated)   -diabetes (as PWCF ages)   -Gall stones (adults)   -prolapsed rectum(part of bowel is    coming out of the rectum)   SYMPTOMS OF THE LUNGS   -swelling of the sinuses   -nasal polyps   -inflamation and swelling (lungs)   -decreased lung function   -bacteria in the lungs (all of life)   -swelled airways   -frequent bronchitis and pneumonia   -fatigue   -shortness of breath   -barrel-shaped chest OTHER SYMPTOMS    -enlarged barrel-shaped chest    -salty tasting skin    -males are usually infertile

Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis

A Cystic Fibrosis Lung

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What is CFTR?

The Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis

The Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis

The Cystic Fibrosis Reference Page

Normal Pancreas Tissue

Pancreas affected by Cystic Fibrosis

Lung Tissue affected by Cystic Fibrosis

Normal Lung Tissue