Although patients cannot prevent cystic fibrosis, they can take several steps in their day-to-day lives that may reduce symptoms or make them more manageable. Patients with cystic fibrosis are encouraged to lead a healthy lifestyle, including eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly and avoiding smoking.

Patients are also encouraged to do the following:

• Engage in chest physical therapy (CPT) every day
  
  
• Wash hands frequently to reduce the risk of infections
  
  
• Drink plenty of fluids
  
  
• Receive annual flu vaccines and other recommended vaccinations
  
  
• Take medications as prescribed

Children who have cystic fibrosis often require a high-protein, high-calorie diet to help them gain weight and grow properly. Parents are urged to consult with a physician about the best diet to help children achieve their caloric requirements.

In the 1950s people with cystic fibrosis died in early childhood, but the predicted median age of survival increased to 32 years in 2000 and 36.5 years in 2005, according to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. People with the disease may complete college, have careers, marry and have family. Some patients live to their 40s and beyond.