Questions from a parent with a toddler with Cystic Fibrosis

I have a 17 month old son with CF. Clint was diagnosed with CF just a couple of weeks after birth. He was born with a bowel obstruction and had 20 cm of his intestines removed. He has been placed on Pulmicord since our arrival in California. I currently live in Southern CA just out of LA. I have concerns with the pollution in this area of the country. I grew up in Montana and have moved to California for a job. I would like anyones input on your feelings about pollution and its short or long term effects on Clint's lungs. I have gotten mixed feedback from the doctors.

Post Edited By Moderator (Admin) : 4/12/2005 1:17:08 PM (GMT-6)

I am originally from Los Angeles, but live in Birmingham, AL with my husband, who has CF.  I believe that the air quality does and will have an affect on lung function over time.  Here the pollution is quite bad and we have air quality alert days when my husband can't go outside.  There is a balance between having a good environment, but also having access to good medical care.  If you have a job that pays well and you enjoy it, then it's worth dealing with the air quality. 

Since you son is young I also recommend applying for insurance that will pay him when he's in the hospital.  We have physicians mutual and you can have up to four policies.  Depending upon the severity of your son's disease, he may not be able to work so having the income from the hospital stays will dramatically improve his quality of life.  That being said, children born today have a great chance of making it past 40 and having totally normal lives. 

I don't know the medical opinion of the effect your "surroundings" has on the lungs but I do know when we moved from Salem, OR to Dallas, TX--my daughter's "flare-ups" increased and she didn't have the stamina she had before. Like you, I had mixed reactions from medical pros but I know the difference I felt in that humid climate and I have healthy lungs.. So if financial reasons prevent you from relocating, please try air purifiers and watch for air quality reports before extended time outdoors. Good luck!