Cystic Fibrosis

CYSTIC FIBROSIS

1. CHARACTERISTICS:

Characteristics of cystic fibrosis include:

*frequent lingering cough

*increased mucus and phlegm

*repeated lung infections

*difficulty breathing

*smelly and frequent bowel movements

*salty taste to skin

*excessive appetite but low weight gain

*life threatening

2. HOW DOES CONDITION IMPACT A CHILD'S ABILITY TO PARTICIPATE

IN ACTIVITIES WITH OTHER CHILDREN:

Exercise is beneficial to children with CF, it helps to loosen mucus that clogs lungs and it may increase lung capacity. However, they may have less stamina and tire easily.

3. THREE ACTIVITIES

Horseback riding:

a) This activity could be considered beneficial considering the jostle of the ride could aid in loosening mucus in the child's lungs.

b) In order for the child to participate fully, it would be beneficial to bring along extra fluids (w/o caffeine) and salty snacks (if hot out) and any medications such as medicated mist (for breathing difficulties).

c) If the child was unable to participate on a trail ride, the children could instead learn how to feed and groom the horses, allowing all the children to ask questions and learn about horses/

Swimming:

a) This activity could be considered beneficial in building stamina as far as breathing

strength and lung capacity.

b) In order to participate fully, the child should first have any treatments concerning

loosening and ridding the lungs of mucus buildups.

c) If unable to participate in swimming the activity could be changed to shallow water

games such as a