Lewis H. Walker, MD, Cystic Fibrosis Center

The cystic fibrosis center at Akron Children's Hospital is 1 of 6 in Ohio that provides comprehensive care for cystic fibrosis, including respiratory therapy, physical therapy, genetic counseling and nutrition counseling. We also actively participate in clinical trials to research new drug therapies to manage the chronic disease. Our goal is to improve treatment and quality of life for children and adults affected by CF.

Specialized care.

We provide diagnosis and treatment to children and adults with cystic fibrosis. Treatment depends on the stage of the disease and which organs are involved.

Most therapies are designed to clear the lungs of the thick mucus to make breathing easier, minimize the bacteria that cause respiratory infections, and provide the missing digestive enzymes for food absorption.

Children with CF must eat a healthy, high-calorie diet supplemented with vitamins, and usually medications that contain pancreatic enzymes to help aid food absorption. Many also require daily respiratory therapy, where a parent or caretaker is trained to perform vigorous percussions on the back and chest to dislodge thick mucus from the lungs.

Lung and liver transplants, stronger antibiotics and medications that thin mucus have contributed to the increased life of CF patients.

If you or a family member has cystic fibrosis, we recommend:

• Educating yourself, family and friends about the disease. 
• Performing daily chest percussions or using an alternative airway clearance device such as the Flutter Valve, pep valve or manual chest physical therapy to prevent infection. 
• Encouraging an active and normal lifestyle. 
• Encouraging high-calorie intake and taking digestive enzymes (90% of CF patients require enzymes). 
• Taking antibiotics and other medications exactly as prescribed. Many patients require daily aerosols of mucus-thinning medication, antibiotics or bronchodilators. 
• Working with your healthcare providers and staying informed.