Production of mucus

Question

Dear CF-team,
which factors influence an increased production of mucus (apart from Staphylococci and Pseudomonas and other germs)?
I do not have any germs in my sputum, however despite this, a very high production of mucus in the lung (100ml daily).
Would a special diet be an option (e.g. few milk)?
Many greetings,

Answer

Dear CF-patient,
the production of mucus is in direct correlation to the illness of CF and is actually the characteristic of CF. Therefore, the CF is also named (especially in Germany) as "Mucoviszidose" (=tenacious mucus). However the production of mucus and especially also the amount depend on different factors. Besides the factors already mentioned by you, the CF-genetics, but probably additionally also other genetic factors play a role. In addition, this production of mucus can vary strongly and can increase with progress of the disease. Therapeutically it is difficult to influence. Dietary measures do not have an influence on the amount of mucus and are therefore not recommended. Physiotherapeutical measures can reduce the production of mucus at best slightly, probably the inhalation of so-called bronchodilators is helpful and probably also the therapy with macrolide antibiotics (however these are only experiences we made at our own patient).
With warm regards,
Dr. med. Markus Hofer
Adult CF-clinic
University hospital of Zurich, Switzerland

01.08.2011