The 20 Best Cystic Fibrosis Doctors Near Me in San Francisco, CA

Find the Top Cystic Fibrosis Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 51 doctor with experience in Cystic Fibrosis near San Francisco, CA. Of these, 34 are Experienced, 12 are Advanced and 3 are Distinguished.

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51 providers found
    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Transplant Surgery | Pulmonary Medicine
    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Transplant Surgery | Pulmonary Medicine

    Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Program

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, Room A6114, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Steven Hays, a pulmonologist, is medical director of the UCSF Lung Transplant Program, which is known for accepting patients with complex conditions while maintaining superior survival rates. His expertise is in caring for patients with end-stage lung disease who proceed through the lung transplant process. He treats conditions that include cystic fibrosis, emphysema associated with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, and interstitial lung disease. In research, Hays focuses on studying how airway remodeling occurs in the transplanted lung. Hays earned his medical degree at the University of Kansas. He completed a residency in internal medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where he served as chief resident, followed by a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at UCSF. He also completed a lung transplant fellowship at Stanford Health Care. Dr. Hays is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 15 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, Lung Transplant, and Endoscopy. Dr. Hays is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med/Critical Care Med, Critical Care Medicine and American Board Of Internal Med/Pulmonary Disease, Pulmonary Disease. Dr. Hays is currently accepting new patients.

    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Program

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, Room A6114, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Laura Koth is a pulmonologist and an expert in interstitial lung disease. She is co-director of UCSF's interstitial lung disease center of excellence. Koth's research activities focus on the mechanisms of lung inflammation and macrophage activation. Macrophages are a type of white blood cell with important roles in immune response. Koth earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical School. She completed residency training in internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, followed by a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine UCSF. She joined the UCSF faculty in 2003. Dr. Koth is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 12 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Sarcoidosis, Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, and Lung Transplant. Dr. Koth is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med/Pulmonary Disease, Pulmonary Disease. Dr. Koth is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Lung Health Center At Parnassus

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, Room A6114, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Jonathan Budzik is a pulmonologist who cares for adults with cystic fibrosis. He also treats adults with a wide variety of lung disorders through the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System. His goal is to provide the highest level of care possible while enabling his patients to improve their respiratory health and lead fulfilling lives. Budzik's research is focused on understanding immune responses to mycobacterial pulmonary infections and how the diseases develop at the molecular level. After earning a master of science degree in human anatomy and genetics at the University of Oxford, Budzik earned his doctoral degree in biological sciences at the University of Chicago. He earned his medical degree at the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine. He completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at UCSF. In his free time, Budzik enjoys playing the piano. Dr. Budzik is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 4 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Cystic Fibrosis, Secondary Immunodeficiency (SID), Newborn Jaundice, and Cholesterol Pneumonia. Dr. Budzik is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Neurocritical Care, American Board Of Internal Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine. Dr. Budzik is currently accepting new patients.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Neuroradiology | Radiology
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Neuroradiology | Radiology

    Birthmarks & Vascular Anomalies Center

    1825 Fourth St., Fourth Floor, 4B, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (1.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Christopher Dowd is an expert in neurointerventional radiology, the minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment of disorders involving blood vessels of the brain and spine. He has special interests in treating brain aneurysms and vascular malformations using endovascular techniques. After receiving his undergraduate degree in biology from Harvard University, Dowd earned his medical degree at the University of Virginia. He completed a residency in diagnostic radiology at University of California, San Diego, and fellowships in neuroradiology and interventional radiology at UCSF, where he joined the faculty in 1987. Dowd is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Clinical Teacher of the Year award from the UCSF Department of Dermatology and Elliot Lasser Award from the UCSD Department of Radiology. Dr. Dowd is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Arteriovenous Malformation, Subarachnoid Hemorrhage, Vein of Galen Aneurysm, Thrombectomy, and Stent Placement. Dr. Dowd is board certified in American Board Of Radiology, Neuroradiology and American Board Of Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology.

    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Cystic Fibrosis Center

    400 Parnassus Ave Fl 5, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Mary Kleinhenz is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Kleinhenz is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 19 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Cystic Fibrosis, Bronchiectasis, Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, Lung Metastases, and Lung Transplant.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis

    Imaging Center At Montgomery Street

    1725 Montgomery St., Suite 250, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Thomas M. Link is chief of the musculoskeletal imaging section in the UCSF Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging. As clinical director of the department's Musculoskeletal Quantitative Imaging Research (MQIR) group, he has a strong interest in translational research (using study findings to establish new treatments or diagnostic methods). The main focuses of MQIR are: imaging of osteoporosis, particularly developing new techniques for assessing bone quality and density; applying new imaging techniques to the assessment of osteoarthritis and cartilage, and to preventing cartilage degeneration; new imaging sequences for musculoskeletal imaging at high field; and MR-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound for treatment of bony abnormalities. Link earned his medical degree at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz in Germany. He completed his medical residency in Münster, Germany. He completed a research fellowship in radiology at UCSF. Link was a vice chair in the radiology department at the Technical University of Munich before joining UCSF in 2003. Dr. Link is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Sandhaus Ben-Ami Syndrome, Synovitis, MAGIC Syndrome, Thrombectomy, and Stent Placement. Dr. Link is board certified in American Board Of Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology. Dr. Link is currently accepting new patients.

    Internal Medicine
    Internal Medicine

    University Anesthesia Medical Group

    505 Parnassus Ave, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Mallar Bhattacharya is a critical care and pulmonary specialist who cares for patients hospitalized with critical illness or lung disease. Bhattacharya's research interests include pneumonia, septic shock and severe asthma. After earning a bachelor's degree at Harvard College and a master's degree in neuroscience at the University of Oxford, Bhattacharya attended Harvard Medical School. He then completed a residency in internal medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital, followed by a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at UCSF. He also did research training at the UCSF Lung Biology Center. Dr. Bhattacharya is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 1 other condition, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pulmonary Fibrosis, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, and Interstitial Lung Disease. Dr. Bhattacharya is board certified in American Board Of Medical Specialties, Neurocritical Care, American Board Of Internal Med/Critical Care Med, Critical Care Medicine, and American Board Of Internal Med/Pulmonary Disease, Pulmonary Disease.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine

    Asthma Clinic

    400 Parnassus Ave # 5, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (0.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    John Fahy is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Fahy is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 4 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Asthma, Asthma in Children, Eosinophilic Asthma, Grass Allergy, and Endoscopy.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine

    San Francisco Critical Care Med Group Inc.

    1100 Van Ness Ave Ste 1005, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (0.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Vinayak Jha is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Jha is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 5 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, Pneumonia, Lung Metastases, and Interstitial Lung Disease.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine

    Office

    2351 Clay St Ste 501, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (1.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Ryan Dougherty is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Dougherty is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, Pneumonia, Lung Metastases, and Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis.

    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Program

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, Room A6114, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Experience:
    18+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Spanish
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Aida Venado is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. She has been practicing medicine for over 18 years. Dr. Venado is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, and Lung Metastases. Dr. Venado is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med/Critical Care Med, Critical Care Medicine, American Board Of Internal Med/Pulmonary Disease, Pulmonary Disease, and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine. Dr. Venado is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Program

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, Room A6114, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Jeffrey Golden, associate medical director of the UCSF Lung Transplant Program, is a pulmonologist who cares for patients with severe lung disease, particularly those who are candidates for lung transplants. Golden is director of clinical trials (studies to evaluate new therapies) for the Interstitial Lung Disease Program. In 2010, one of his longtime patients, Nina Ireland, left $48 million – almost her entire estate – to UCSF, creating the Nina Ireland Program for Lung Health. The ambitious program supports creative, collaborative approaches to advancing patient care, professional training and research in pulmonary medicine. Golden earned his medical degree at Washington University in St. Louis. He completed his training in both internal medicine and pulmonary medicine at UCSF. He completed pulmonary research training at the UCSF Cardiovascular Research Institute, where he studied ozone inhalation in humans as a model of asthma. Dr. Golden is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 7 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Respiratory Acidosis, Cystic Fibrosis, Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, and Pulmonary Fibrosis. Dr. Golden is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine. Dr. Golden is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Transplant Surgery
    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Transplant Surgery

    Lung Transplant Program

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Alyssa A. Perez is a pulmonologist who cares for patients living with cystic fibrosis (CF), an inherited condition that damages the lungs and other organs. She provides pre- and postsurgical care for patients undergoing lung transplantation. Perez's research, which is supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Therapeutics Development Network, focuses on conducting clinical trials (studies with human volunteers) of new CF treatments. Perez earned her medical degree from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University and completed a residency in internal medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital. She also earned a master of education degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. At UCSF, she completed a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine, including a year of advanced training in lung transplantation, cystic fibrosis and advanced lung disease. In addition to caring for patients, Perez enjoys training the next generation of doctors. She is a coach for the UCSF pulmonary and critical care medicine fellowship and an associate program director for the internal medicine residency program. Dr. Perez is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Cystic Fibrosis, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, and Lung Transplant. Dr. Perez is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med/Critical Care Med, Critical Care Medicine, American Board Of Internal Med/Pulmonary Disease, Pulmonary Disease, and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine. Dr. Perez is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Lung Health Center At Parnassus

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, Room A6114, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Michelle Yu is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Yu is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 1 other condition, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Cystic Fibrosis, Pseudomonas Stutzeri Infections, Secondary Immunodeficiency (SID), and Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia. Dr. Yu is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine. Dr. Yu is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Lung Transplant Program

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Jonathan Singer is a pulmonologist and critical care specialist who cares for patients with advanced lung disease before and after lung transplantation. He treats conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, interstitial lung disease (ILD), connective tissue disease–associated ILD, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In his research, Singer studies outcomes in lung transplantation and how lung transplants improve function, reduce disability and improve health-related quality of life. A second area of his research on lung transplantation is identifying presurgical risk factors associated with important outcomes. Singer earned his medical degree and master of science degree in the joint program of the University of California, Berkeley and UCSF. He completed a residency in internal medicine, a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine, and a fellowship in lung and heart-lung transplantation, all at UCSF. Singer is a member of the American Thoracic Society, International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation, American College of Chest Physicians and European Respiratory Society. Dr. Singer is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pulmonary Fibrosis, Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, Bronchiolitis Obliterans, and Lung Transplant. Dr. Singer is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med/Pulmonary Disease, Pulmonary Disease. Dr. Singer is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine | Intensive Care Medicine
    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine | Intensive Care Medicine

    Lung Health Center At Parnassus

    400 Parnassus Ave., Sixth Floor, Room A6114, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Nirav Bhakta is an internal medicine specialist who provides diagnostic testing and care for patients with lung disease, including those in intensive care. He enjoys the challenge of working with patients and families affected by serious illnesses. Bhakta's research aims to understand the molecular basis for variations in asthma, and to use this knowledge to develop and test targeted treatments. He incorporates his experience in computer programming and quantitative modeling to study human tissue using high-throughput genomic data analysis (a research method that speeds the screening process). His research contributes to his goal of providing collaborative, individualized patient care that is based on the best current findings. Bhakta earned his medical degree from Stanford University School of Medicine, where he also completed a doctorate in molecular and cellular physiology. At UCSF, he completed a residency in internal medicine, a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine, and additional research in the genetics of asthma. Bhakta is a member of the American College of Physicians and American Thoracic Society. He is passionate about educating the next generation of pulmonologists through his work with UCSF residents and fellows. Dr. Bhakta is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 15 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, Cholesterol Pneumonia, Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Dr. Bhakta is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Critical Care Medicine and American Board Of Internal Med/Pulmonary Disease, Pulmonary Disease. Dr. Bhakta is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine

    UCSF Genomic Medicine Laboratory

    513 Parnassus Ave, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Mark Looney is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Looney is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), Pneumonia, Cerebral Hypoxia, Pseudomonas Stutzeri Infections, and Lung Transplant.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine

    University Of California San Francisco

    505 Parnassus Ave, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (2.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Prescott Woodruff is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Woodruff is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Emphysema, Asthma, Bronchitis, and Endoscopy.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine

    San Francisco VA Medical Center

    4150 Clement St, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (4.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    John Greenland is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Greenland is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Bronchiolitis Obliterans, Bronchitis, Pneumonia, Cystic Fibrosis, and Lung Transplant.

    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine | Pulmonary Medicine
    Advanced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Intensive Care Medicine | Pulmonary Medicine
    2351 Clay St, #501, 
    San Francisco, CA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Noreen Henig is an Intensive Care Medicine specialist and a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in San Francisco, California. Dr. Henig is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 3 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Bronchiolitis Obliterans, Bronchitis, Cystic Fibrosis, and Lung Transplant.

    Showing 1-20 of 51

    Last Updated: 04/28/2026

    What is the definition of Cystic Fibrosis?

    Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited, slowly progressive disease that affects the cells in glands that produce mucus, sweat, and digestive fluids, by changing the electrolyte system in ways that make cells absorb too much sodium and water, causing the cells to produce thick mucus that clogs and damages several organs, including the lungs, liver, pancreas, intestines, urinary tract, and reproductive organs. As these organs become damaged, individuals with cystic fibrosis usually will develop severe, chronic lung disease and digestive problems, among other complications, such as malnutrition. Cystic fibrosis is usually diagnosed during infancy due to newborn screening.

    Which doctors treat cystic fibrosis?     

    Cystic fibrosis (CF) is treated by a team of doctors that specialize in different areas of medicine. Pulmonologists focus on lung health because CF causes problems with breathing. Gastroenterologists help manage digestive issues since CF also affects how the body absorbs food. Dietitians ensure patients get enough nutrition, while respiratory therapists help with treatments like breathing exercises. Physical therapists may help with clearing mucus from the lungs. Many people with CF get care at specialized cystic fibrosis centers, where experts work together to provide the best care possible. 

    What are the symptoms of cystic fibrosis? 

    Symptoms of CF can vary from person to person and often get worse if left untreated.  

    Common signs of CF include: 

    • Frequent coughing, sometimes with thick mucus 
    • Shortness of breath or wheezing 
    • Frequent lung infections, like pneumonia or bronchitis 
    • Difficulty gaining weight 
    • Loose or oily stools or trouble with bowel movements 
    • Salty skin or extra salty sweat 
    • Stomach pain or bloating 

    How is cystic fibrosis diagnosed?  

    CF is usually diagnosed through several tests. Most babies are screened at birth through newborn screening. Babies with CF may have difficulty passing their first bowel movement, which can be an early sign. If CF is suspected, a sweat test is done. This test measures how much salt is in the sweat, which is higher in people with CF. Genetic testing may also be used to confirm the diagnosis by checking for mutations in the CFTR gene that causes CF. Sometimes, doctors will also do lung function tests or imaging tests like X-rays to understand how the disease is affecting the lungs. 

    What can cystic fibrosis be mistaken for?    

    CF can be mistaken for other conditions with similar symptoms. Breathing problems in CF, like coughing and wheezing, may resemble asthma or chronic bronchitis, both of which also cause lung issues. Frequent lung infections can further blur the lines between CF and chronic bronchitis. Digestive symptoms, such as greasy stools and difficulty gaining weight, can be confused with celiac disease, which affects nutrient absorption, or Crohn’s disease, which causes digestive inflammation. CF’s impact on the pancreas might also be misdiagnosed as pancreatitis. To confirm cystic fibrosis, doctors use specific tests like the sweat test or genetic testing to ensure the correct diagnosis. 

    What is the life expectancy for someone with cystic fibrosis?  

    Cystic fibrosis is a serious, life-shortening condition, but people with CF are living much longer than they used to. In the past, most people with CF didn’t live into adulthood, but now, with better treatments and care, many live into their 40s, 50s, or even longer. New medications help manage the disease, and regular care can improve quality of life. Even though there is no cure yet, researchers are working hard to develop new treatments that could help people with CF live longer.   

    When should I see a Cystic Fibrosis doctor near San Francisco, CA?

    There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

    • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
    • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
    • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
    • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
    • You want a second opinion.  

    What should I consider when choosing a Cystic Fibrosis doctor near San Francisco, CA?

    It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

    How does MediFind rank Cystic Fibrosis doctors near San Francisco, CA?

    MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

    What types of insurance are accepted by Cystic Fibrosis doctors near San Francisco, CA?

    Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

    How can I book an appointment online with a Cystic Fibrosis doctor near San Francisco, CA?

    MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Cystic Fibrosis doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Cystic Fibrosis doctor?

    Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

    How can I prepare for my appointment with a Cystic Fibrosis doctor near San Francisco, CA?

    Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

    • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
    • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
    • Family history of disease 
    • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
    • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
    • List of questions and concerns 
    • Your insurance card 

    You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

    What questions should I ask my Cystic Fibrosis doctor?

    Here are some sample questions: 

    • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
    • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
    • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
    • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
    • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

    How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Cystic Fibrosis doctor may know about?

    MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

    MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

    Can I filter my search to show male or female Cystic Fibrosis doctors near San Francisco, CA?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Cystic Fibrosis doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

    Can I filter my search to find a Cystic Fibrosis doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Cystic Fibrosis doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

    Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

    By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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