Describe how cystic fibrosis affects the body, including the respiratory and other body systems. ...

Answer: People with cystic fibrosis have a higher than normal level of salt in their sweat; therefore, they have very salty-tasting skin. The thick, sticky mucus secreted in the lungs causes dyspnea, wheezing, and a persistent cough with thick sputum. Excessive mucus also blocks the ducts of the pancreas, preventing the release of digestive enzymes and resulting in weight loss and malnutrition. The lack of proper fat digestion results in large, bulky, foul-smelling stool. Pancreatic glands become dilated and develop into cysts containing thick mucus.