Cystic Fibrosis Symptoms ~ Learn the Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis

Don and Linda Warner saw symptoms of cystic fibrosis within weeks of their beautiful daughter’s birth, but, “At the time we knew nothing about cystic fibrosis or it’s symptoms.”

“Within weeks after Angela came home, she developed a severe cough that triggered projectile vomiting. She was unable to keep food down. Linda and I worried that our baby wasn’t getting sufficient nourishment. Her stomach was upset almost all the time and her sleep was difficult. We carried her around the house virtually all night talking and singing, trying to comfort her. This sometimes worked. For weeks we carried her, walked with her, took her for late-night drives, and comforted her day and night as she struggled with what appeared to be a serious respiratory condition. I was not aware at the time, but the salty taste I noticed when kissing her head was an ominous sign…

“Linda and I became increasingly alarmed at Angela’s respiratory problems and failure to thrive. Her eyes were hollow and dark. She was becoming weaker, using extra muscles to take each breath. Her condition was worsening.”

From Walks on the Beach With Angie: A Father’s Story of Love
by Don Warner with Marly Cornell

Symptoms of cystic fibrosis vary depending the severity of the disease and the child’s age.

Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis in Newborns

Our daughter, Angela, had one of the most typical symptoms found in newborns with cystic fibrosis—difficulty digesting food, which can lead to a blockage in the intestines and a failure to thrive. Soon she also developed respiratory problems—coughing and eventually pneumonia.

Linda and I consulted with several pediatricians at the time (1981) before we found a doctor who recognized what appeared to be the symptoms of cystic fibrosis. As new parents we were horrified to see our child in misery, not know how to comfort her and to feel the immense fear that something was terribly wrong with our baby.

If there is a child with cystic fibrosis in your life and you have questions, need to find a support group, or just need someone to talk to, know that you are not alone. Feel free to contact me. My daughter, Angie, lived with the symptoms of cystic fibrosis every day of her life. She never let the disease crush her lust for life or her spirit. I am happy to speak with you or meet with your group to talk about our family’s experience.