Cystic Fibrosis Care Center Services
Treatments Overview
As a Cystic Fibrosis Care Center accredited by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, we are committed to providing the highest quality of specialized care to adults with cystic fibrosis. In addition to doctors, you have access to nutritionists, social workers, respiratory therapists, and physical therapists during your clinic appointments. A registered nurse will help coordinate these appointments to make the most of your time.
Nutritional Assessment
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Because digestive problems are common in people with cystic fibrosis, your care includes a nutritional assessment and counseling from a dietitian with expertise in cystic fibrosis. Our nutritionist will help you design an eating plan to ensure proper nutrition and improve your overall health. If you have pancreatic insufficiency, we will work with you to determine the appropriate pancreatic enzyme replacement regimen to make sure you absorb the nutrients you eat.
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When needed, our physical therapists will work with you to develop a customized exercise plan that improves your breathing and lung function and optimizes your posture. This can include teaching you breathing and exercise techniques that help open your airways and increase mobility in your muscles and joints.
Respiratory Therapy
Description
Our clinic’s respiratory therapists provide guidance on airway clearance and breathing treatment techniques. You can meet with them on an annual basis to ensure you are performing your breathing techniques effectively and learning ways to optimize them for better health.
A Team Approach to Your Cystic Fibrosis Treatment
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Duke’s cystic fibrosis team can help you, whether you are currently receiving care elsewhere or are transitioning your care because of a move, because you are outgrowing pediatric care, or because your treatment has lapsed for some time.
Individualized Treatment Regimen
A one-size-fits-all treatment is not effective for people with cystic fibrosis, so we tailor treatment to each person we see. At Duke, you'll be cared for by a pulmonologist and therapists trained in and passionate about cystic fibrosis. They will develop an effective, individualized treatment regimen that takes your life circumstances into account, aligns with your goals and values, and meets your health needs. Our intent is to support every person with cystic fibrosis in living the best life possible.
Access to the Latest Cystic Fibrosis Therapies
Our involvement with cystic fibrosis clinical trials means you may have access to the latest cystic fibrosis therapies, including new antibiotics, drug-delivery systems, and CFTR modulators, which correct the genetic mutations that cause cystic fibrosis. As an accredited Cystic Fibrosis Center, we can look for mutations in your genes and determine if you qualify for one of these drugs, which can dramatically impact your cystic fibrosis symptoms and increase your life expectancy.
Seamless Transition from Pediatric to Adult Care
Our comprehensive program includes helping young adults begin taking responsibility for their own care. The transition from pediatric to adult specialists begins around the age of 16. It is a gradual process that takes place over years, and we work closely with our pediatric cystic fibrosis team colleagues to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible. We provide support and guidance to help young adults manage home treatments, monitor symptoms, and learn when to seek help from their doctor.
