According to the Mayo Clinic, cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening genetic disorder that mainly affects the respiratory and digestive systems. CF occurs because of a defective gene that causes the secretions to become thick and sticky, clogging up tubes, ducts and passageways, especially in the pancreas and lungs. The Mayo Clinic reports that CF happens most often in white people of northern European ancestry, occurring in about one 3,000 live births. Some of the CF symptoms in babies are excessive salty sweat, intestinal blockage and respiratory problems.
Excessive Salty Sweat
According to the Mayo Clinic, the presence of excessive salty sweat in babies is the first symptom of CF. This increased levels of salt can upset the balance of minerals in the blood, which may lead to abnormal heart rhythms. Such babies can be easily recognized through the taste of salt on their skin when a parent or other caregiver kisses the baby. The Mayo Clinic recommends consulting a physician in such condition.
Intestinal Blockage
According to the Mayo Clinic, thick mucus formed because of CF can block the intestines. This causes problems with food and liquid re-absorption into the body. The Mayo Clinic further recommends the use of enemas and mucolytic agents to treat intestinal obstructions. Emergency intestinal surgery might be needed, especially if there is complete obstruction in a section of the intestine.
Difficulty with Breathing
According to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, respiratory problems such as difficult breathing, regular wheezing and coughing are associated with CF. The abnormal protein produced in CF results in very little salt and water lining the walls of the lungs. Instead of a normal thin layer of mucus, a dense layer of mucus is produced, which leaves the lungs susceptible to bacteria and infections. This mucus is hard to cough out and can eventually lead to lung damage.
