Sweet relief for cystic fibrosis sufferers

This looks like some great news!

:

---

Sweet relief for cystic fibrosis sufferers
12:23 PM November 26

Australian doctors are getting good results with a new treatment for cystic fibrosis.

Patients are given a sugar substance called mannitol which they inhale, bringing water into their airways.

Respiratory physician Dr Peter le Souef from Perth's Princess Margaret Hospital says a trial has shown patients using the substance have a 7 per cent increase in their lung capacity.


"It's useful for patients with cystic fibrosis because one of the problems they have is very thick secretions in the airways," he said.

"By bringing water into the airway, that helps lubricate the secretions and helps people cough them up.

The treatment was developed by Australian researchers and is being fast tracked for approval in the United States.

Further trials will be held before Australian health authorities will consider approving its use in Australia.

---