In cystic fibrosis, a defective gene results in thick, sticky mucus, sweat and digestive juices. Though it is a serious illness, cystic fibrosis doesn’t have to stop you from participating in things you love, like sports. Not only can you play sports, but staying active may also benefit your condition. Consult your medical health team before playing sports or engaging in a new exercise routine, especially if you are an adult considering a sport for the first time.
Benefits
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation recommends exercise such as sports to help strengthen the heart and lungs, providing a number of health benefits. Regular exercise helps loosen mucus in your airways and chest, making it easier to breathe. Exercise also helps maintain the strength of your bones. Because cystic fibrosis increases your risk of osteoporosis, this is especially important. Exercise also helps boost your mood, relieving anxiety and stress and improving your overall well-being.
Food and Drink
If you have cystic fibrosis, playing sports outside in hot and humid weather can be dangerous because you lose more electrolytes through your sweat than the average person. This makes it critical that you stay hydrated when playing sports. Water is important, but have some sports drinks as well. They contain electrolytes, helping to maintain the balance of sodium and chloride. Your condition also makes it difficult for your body to absorb fat and other nutrients in food. Because of this, you continually need more calories, especially if you're exercising. Eat regularly and don't skip meals or snacks. It may be beneficial to work with a dietitian who can help develop a meal plan that provides you with enough calories to keep your body healthy and sustain energy during sports play.
Exercise Test
For teens and adults engaging in a new sport, your doctor may perform a test to see if your heart can handle the stress of exercise. During the exercise test, your doctor will place electrodes on your chest and have you walk on a treadmill. The electrodes measure the activity of your heart. Some people with cystic fibrosis may experience an irregular heartbeat during exercise, although this is rare. If an irregular heartbeat is discovered during your exercise test, you may still be able to play sports, but exercise will need to be kept at a less intense level. It may also be necessary to monitor your heart during exercise.
Considerations
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation encourages parents to help their young children develop good attitudes about sports and exercise early. Make sports a positive part of your child's life by committing to a regular activity as a family. Play soccer in the park twice a week or shoot some hoops in the driveway after dinner. Expose young children to a variety of different sports until they find the one they like. For teens, it's important that they feel good about themselves, especially around their peers. Encourage your teenager to get involved in team sports, but don't push too hard. Remind your teen that it's about having fun, not winning. Adults considering sports for the first time should talk to a doctor first. If you haven't been involved in any physical activity, your lungs, heart, bones and joints may not be strong enough for some sports. Your doctor will perform an exercise test to determine your status.
