If the infection or inflammation last for too long or remain untreated they can become permanently damaged. The progression of lung damage is very slow and subtle, yet eventually it will get to the point where there isn't enough healthy lung to bring oxygen into the body or to eliminate carbon dioxide. (Orenstein, 31).
Another part of the body that is greatly affected by cystic fibrosis is the gastrointestinal tract. Abnormal mucus blocks the tubes in the pancreas a lot like it does in the lungs. Because of this blockage, digestive enzymes aren't released into the intestine like they should be; these enzymes are needed for normal digestion and absorption. Many problems occur in the intestine as a result of blockage. A condition called Distal Intestinal Obstruction Syndrome occurs when there is blockage far down the intestines, in the colon, too few enzymes may bring on this condition. The symptoms include severe abdominal cramps and constipation. Another problem in the intestines as a result of cystic fibrosis is Intussusception. Intussusception is when part of the intestine is pulled up inside another part of the intestine. What causes this is that sticky stool and mucus adhere to the inside of the intestines and are pulled along, pulling the intestine within itself. A similar condition called Rectal Prolapse involves the same action as in intussusception. In this case the rectum is pulled right out of the anus to the point where it is visible. Rectal prolapse is fairly common and is seldom dangerous or painful. (Orenstein, 75-86).
Although the lungs and the gastrointestinal tract are the main parts of the body affected by cystic fibrosis, many other problems occur in other parts of the body as well. The Esophagus is affected in gastroesophageal reflux when stomach acid, mucus, and partially digested food come back up in the esophagus. This can result in heart-burn, vomiting, and if the acid, mucus, and food stay in the esophagus for very long damage can cause bleeding or scar tissue within the esophagus, making swallowing difficult.
