What precaution is recommended for students with cystic fibrosis during physical activity?

What precaution is recommended for students with cystic fibrosis during physical activity?

• A. Engage in high-intensity intervals without rest to build endurance.
• B. Be cautious about environmental agitations, avoid overexertion, protect nose and mouth due to sensitive lungs.
• C. Avoid exposure to crowds to prevent viruses.
• D. No special precautions beyond standard PPE.

Answer: (B)

Cystic fibrosis lowers the lungs’ resilience, so activity should protect the airways and be paced. Cold, dry air and other irritants can trigger coughing, increased mucus production, and breathing difficulty. Covering the nose and mouth helps warm and humidify inhaled air, reducing irritation to sensitive lungs. At the same time, avoiding overexertion prevents excessive breathlessness and fatigue that can compromise airway clearance and recovery. Taken together, these precautions—protecting the inhaled air and moderating effort—are the recommended approach during physical activity for someone with CF.

Cystic fibrosis lowers the lungs’ resilience, so activity should protect the airways and be paced. Cold, dry air and other irritants can trigger coughing, increased mucus production, and breathing difficulty. Covering the nose and mouth helps warm and humidify inhaled air, reducing irritation to sensitive lungs. At the same time, avoiding overexertion prevents excessive breathlessness and fatigue that can compromise airway clearance and recovery. Taken together, these precautions—protecting the inhaled air and moderating effort—are the recommended approach during physical activity for someone with CF.