Which statement best describes the role of exercise in CF?

• A. Exercise worsens lung function
• B. Exercise helps clear secretions
• C. Exercise has no effect
• D. Exercise is contraindicated in CF patients

Answer: (B)

Exercise helps clear secretions by promoting mucus mobilization through deeper, more forceful breathing and increased coughing. When you exercise, the lungs ventilate more, which helps loosen and move thick CF mucus toward the larger airways where it can be coughed up and cleared. This action adds to other airway clearance therapies and often improves overall endurance and fitness, making daily clearance easier over time. It’s not something CF patients avoid; in fact, regular exercise is generally encouraged and only limited during an acute illness or significant instability. So, the best description is that exercise aids in clearing secretions, which is central to managing CF.