How Salt Therapy Can Help with Cystic Fibrosis 

Cystic Fibrosis is a health condition that primarily affects the respiratory system. This condition causes the development of excessive amounts of mucus and leaves the lungs vulnerable to develop recurring infections. It is estimated that nearly 30,000 patients in the United States alone are affected by this condition and nearly 1,000 new diagnoses are made each year. Cystic Fibrosis is a complex disease, and the symptoms vary from person to person, which makes developing a treatment plan a difficult task. Each treatment plan must be personalized to manage the condition but many patients are seeing improved symptoms through the use of salt therapy. 

Overview of Cystic Fibrosis 

Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic condition that occurs in newborns who inherit the required CF gene mutation from both parents. The disease affects secretory glands of the body including the sweat and mucus glands in the body. A person with Cystic Fibrosis produces mucus that is thicker and stickier than a person without the condition, which makes it more difficult to expel through coughing and sneezing. 

A patient with Cystic Fibrosis can suffer from mucus buildup in a number of ways. The primary complaint is mucus that builds up in the airway and lungs on a continuous basis. However, this thick, excessive mucus can also build up in the pancreas and cause it to become blocked, preventing digestive enzymes from exiting the pancreas. Unfortunately, the blockages caused by this thickened mucus create the perfect environment for bacteria growth, which can lead to frequent infections and other complications and prevent the body from absorbing important nutrients. 

Can Salt Therapy Reduce Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis? 

May patients with Cystic Fibrosis report that their symptoms are triggered or exacerbated by airborne substances that are typically found in the environment. Things like dust mites, dander, cold weather, and physical exertion can cause a significant increase in symptoms. However, salt therapy, which is also known as Halotherapy, or dry salt therapy allows patients to reduce many of their symptoms. This procedure is simple and involves breathing in the air of a Himalayan salt cave. This cave is filled with micronized salt particles. 

Inflammation Associated with Cystic Fibrosis 

The symptom that interferes in patients’ lives the most is inflammation. This inflammation and swelling can be found in the lining of the passages that air follows inside of the lungs. With the addition of a thick mucus buildup patients suffer from wheezing, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath. 

Salt Therapy Helps Patients Breathe Easier 

Not only is salt an anti-bacterial, but it is also an anti-inflammatory. As patients breathe in the air inside the Himalayan salt cave, the micronized salt particles absorb toxins and allergens that become trapped in the respiratory system and help eliminate them from the body. This also decreases the amount of mucus production and can decrease the amount of inflammation found in the respiratory system. Essentially, the salt detoxes the respiratory system to provide welcomed relief during breathing. 

One Final Thought 

There are many studies proving that salt therapy does help improve the symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis. Salt therapy has a history dating back almost 200 years and has been proven to help patients with many diseases and conditions live more complete lives with fewer symptoms. This therapy is typically referred to as halotherapy. There are many research studies showing the benefits of salt therapy in patients with Cystic Fibrosis and how it can benefit patients with a wide range of symptoms. The Salt Room Oviedo can help treat cystic fibrosis so if you have any questions please reach out to us as we would love to help.