Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. It is caused by mutations in the CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator) gene, which leads to the production of thick, sticky mucus in various organs, particularly the lungs and pancreas.

Key features of Cystic Fibrosis include:

1. Respiratory Symptoms: Thick mucus in the airways can lead to frequent lung infections, chronic coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and progressive lung damage. Over time, repeated lung infections and inflammation can result in bronchiectasis (damage and widening of the airways) and respiratory complications.
2. Digestive Symptoms: The thick mucus can also block the pancreatic ducts, impairing the release of digestive enzymes needed for proper digestion of food. This can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, poor weight gain or growth in children, abdominal pain, bloating, greasy or bulky stools, and an increased risk of developing pancreatitis.
3. Other Manifestations: Cystic Fibrosis can also affect other organs and systems, leading to complications such as liver disease, sinusitis, nasal polyps, infertility (due to blocked sperm ducts in males or thick cervical mucus in females), osteoporosis, and diabetes (due to pancreatic dysfunction).
4. Diagnosis: Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis typically involves newborn screening tests, sweat chloride testing (which measures the concentration of chloride in sweat, as elevated levels are characteristic of CF), genetic testing to identify CFTR gene mutations, lung function tests, imaging studies (such as chest X-rays or CT scans), and assessment of digestive symptoms.
5. Treatment: While there is no cure for Cystic Fibrosis, treatment aims to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. This may include airway clearance techniques (such as chest physiotherapy and using devices like a flutter valve or positive expiratory pressure mask), bronchodilator medications, inhaled antibiotics to treat lung infections, enzyme replacement therapy to aid digestion, nutritional supplements, pancreatic enzyme replacement, and medications to manage complications (such as diabetes or liver disease). Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals and adherence to treatment plans are essential for individuals with CF.

Advancements in medical care, including targeted therapies and medications like CFTR modulators, have significantly improved outcomes and life expectancy for people with Cystic Fibrosis in recent years. Early diagnosis, comprehensive management, and ongoing support from healthcare providers and CF care teams are crucial for optimizing outcomes and addressing the complex needs of individuals with CF.

NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates is committed to providing excellent care in all aspects of Pulmonary Medicine and Sleep Disorders. With offices located in Lansdowne and Dulles/South Riding, we offer care for the entire Northern Virginia region, serving locations from Chantilly, Fairfax, Centreville, Manassas, Gainesville to Reston, Sterling, Leesburg, Ashburn, Brambleton, Purcellville and more.

Dr. Dubey is the best pulmonary doctor in Northern, Virginia. He has been wonderful and he had helped diagnose the issue I have been having for sometime. I truly appreciate him for all the treatment he has been doing for me to get better. If you need have pulmonary issues and need a doctor that listens to you then I recommend NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates. ~ patient Reston, VA

I cannot recommend this place highly enough. I came in a couple of years ago with a mysterious cough and, long story short, my cough variant asthma ( which I didn’t even know was a thing) is well controlled and vastly improved. Not only is Dr. Dubey a fantastic physician but the staff and techs are all so personable and professional. Dr. Dubey also has treated my sleep apnea and now I sleep well and comfortably. This is a totally professional and quality organization! ~ patient, Ashburn, VA

Dr. Dubey has been so helpful with my sleep disorder, sleep apnea and I underwent some tests. He has is very supportive, easy to talk to and treats me like a family member. I have never had such a good experience with another doctor as I have had at NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates. I highly recommend them. The doctors and staff here are friendly and compassionate. ~ patient, Chantilly, VA

Great practice! Doctor is very attentive and professional. I did not have to wait for any of my appointments once in the office, easy booking online, and the receptionist is lovely. Feel like family now! Will definitely go back for any respiratory problems I have in the future! I highly recommend NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates!!~ patient, Herndon, VA

NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep, LLC – Dr. Dubey has been tremendous find for me. We relocated from Texas and I was in desperate need of a Pulmonary Specialist. He wasted no time in getting me tested, X-rays and then on a prescription, as he diagnosed me with Asthmatic Allergens. I was elated that someone could clinch the problem and administer diagnostic care that other physicians struggled to do over the past 5 years. He is a doctor who is very proactive and his staff is delightful and personable. I highly recommend Dr. Dubey!~ patient, Leesburg, VA

I really enjoy Dr. Dubai and his assistant, Natasha. They are personable and caring with the whole process of taking a sleep test, getting acquainted with the CPAP machine and life with sleep apnea. It’s always an enjoyable experience whenever I go in!~ patient, Lansdowne, VA