Different Ways of Decreasing Phlegm in Those with Cystic Fibrosis

The buildup of phlegm in the respiratory system of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients has been a major problem for years. Changes in thoughts towards old therapies and new developments have generated hope for ways to help reduce the amount of phlegm buildup or to make expulsion of phlegm easier and more productive.

Exercise

Previously, exercise was discouraged for cystic fibrosis patients. Now, physical exercise is thought to have many benefits for those suffering from CF. One of these is the breakup of phlegm in the airways, allowing coughing that takes place during exercise to expel increased volumes of phlegm naturally and without direct medical intervention.

Acupuncture

If one reads about acupuncture, it is amazing to discover that one of the principles of this alternative treatment sounds like a description of the problems in the human body that cause cystic fibrosis. According to ancient Chinese thought, the body needs Chi, which is life energy, to function. The Chinese believe that Chi comes from two sources. The first is the kidneys. The second source is the

sustenance that the body takes from air and food.
For persons that have trouble making enough Chi, acupuncture treatments allow more efficient utilization of air and food. In some areas of cystic fibrosis research seeking treatments and a possible cure, the goal is the same. Therefore, some doctors are now allowing cystic fibrosis patients limited acupuncture treatments targeted at increasing the body's ability to make or increase the production of Chi. If helpful, this increased energy would result in a natural reduction of phlegm in the body of cystic fibrosis sufferers.

Acupuncture also has specific treatments to improve the efficiency of the lungs, increase capacity and increase the level of overall respiratory system wellness. This is because a lot of Chinese thoughts on health revolve around the air we breathe. Some doctors are now allowing their cystic fibrosis patients to have acupuncture treatments targeted at improving lung capability in the human body.

Inhalants