Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic disorder that causes your body to produce thick, sticky mucus. This mucus builds up in your lungs and digestive tract, leading to breathing problems and difficulty absorbing nutrients. CF is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing care to manage infections and maintain healthy growth.
CF symptoms can vary by age and severity, but often include:
Cystic Fibrosis is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which controls how salt and water move in and out of cells. These mutations result in thick mucus production and a range of complications.
At GastroDoxs in Katy, our experienced cystic fibrosis team delivers individualized care plans-combining advanced airway therapies, targeted inhaled medications, nutrition and enzyme support, and regular specialist follow-ups. We're committed to helping you breathe easier, maintain optimal growth, and improve your quality of life. Ready to get started? Call our Katy office today or request an appointment online to begin your personalized CF treatment journey.
We've successfully treated more than 1k patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
With advances in care, many people with CF now live into their 40s, 50s, or beyond. Life expectancy varies by individual health, treatment adherence, and access to specialized care.
CF is diagnosed through a combination of newborn screening, sweat chloride tests, and genetic testing to identify CFTR gene mutations.
Yes. Some individuals have milder gene mutations and may not be diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood after experiencing recurrent lung infections or digestive issues.
A CF diet focuses on high-calorie, high-protein foods, pancreatic enzyme replacement, and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) to support growth and nutrient absorption.
Airway clearance techniques and inhaled therapies-such as nebulized antibiotics and mucolytics-help remove thick mucus and reduce lung infections.
Routine visits are recommended every three months for assessment, lung function testing, and treatment adjustments, with additional appointments during illness or exacerbations.
In advanced cases, lung transplantation may be an option. Other procedures can address complications like nasal polyps or intestinal blockages.
Yes. Living with a chronic condition can lead to anxiety, depression, or stress. We offer referrals to counseling and support groups to maintain emotional well-being.
Absolutely. Regular exercise supports lung clearance, improves cardiovascular health, and builds muscle strength. Programs are tailored to individual ability and health status.
Call our GastroDoxs Katy office or use our online request form for a fast, convenient appointment setup. Our team will guide you through the process.
