The 20 Best Cystic Fibrosis Doctors Near Me in Delaware, US

Find the Top Cystic Fibrosis Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 22 doctor with experience in Cystic Fibrosis near Delaware, US. Of these, 12 are Experienced, 3 are Advanced and 2 are Distinguished.

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22 providers found
    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Experience:
    1+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Aaron C. Chidekel is division chief of pulmonology, co-medical director of the sleep program and director of the hospital's cystic fibrosis program. He's an associate professor of pediatrics at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, author of medical journal articles and books, invited lecturer and active researcher. How can you not love kids and want to do all you can to help them? After all, they are our future. If you can positively impact the life of a child, you also impact a little bit of our future. I became a doctor because I wanted to help people. One of my mentors in medical school was an early pioneer in the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF), and I picked up on his passion for helping those with the disease. Since his early work to today, kids with CF are living longer and better. That's very exciting and led to my wanting to help kids with CF, too — as well as those with asthma and other pulmonary conditions. I'm passionate about working with the whole family. It's the best way for each child to have the best possible outcome, and helps the whole family feel ownership of and contribution to the child's health. I like to help the kids and their families deal with the challenges they are facing. This can be challenging for me as well, but it's ultimately very rewarding when I can make a positive difference for a child and family.I'm also passionate about teaching kids and their families about asthma, CF and other conditions and how they can take care of themselves and live as healthy a life as possible.Learning is very important to my own practice as a doctor as well. I find it crucial to stay up to date on the very latest regarding conditions and treatments. I believe that caring and contributing my skills as a physician can help make a difference for a child and family. Also, a positive attitude can help people get through tough challenges and sometimes serious health concerns. I believe my patients pick up on this and gain confidence from it — although they're often incredibly positive already, no matter what life has thrown at them. Dr. Chidekel 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 Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Hypochondroplasia. Dr. Chidekel is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

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

    Transitional Care Practice Special Needs

    501 West 14th Tctrcr Street, Wilmington Hospital Health Center, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Lynnae Duffalo is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Duffalo is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 24 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Asthma, Asthma in Children, Lung Metastases, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

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

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Experience:
    19+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Even in the face of adversity and medical challenges, children show remarkable resilience. My patients inspire me on a daily basis to be the best physician I can be. I chose to specialize in pediatric pulmonary medicine and sleep medicine because these conditions affect a large amount of the general population, and I wanted to help children with a wide variety of disorders to live happy and healthy lives. I am passionate about helping each family learn to understand their child’s condition. By working with my patients to help them understand their underlying condition, triggers and treatments, my goal is to enable families to manage their children’s condition at home and stay out of the hospital as much as possible. I enjoy getting to know my patients and what activities they like to do when they are well. My proudest moments are seeing my patients doing what they love when healthy.   Some of the conditions I’m especially interested in with my practice include: aerodigestive tract disorders asthma pulmonary conditions related to cerebral palsy ventilator dependency. Dr. Strang is rated as an Advanced 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 Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Hypochondroplasia, Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome, Thanatophoric Dysplasia, and Posterior Fossa Decompression. Dr. Strang is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pediatric Pulmonology
    Distinguished in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pediatric Pulmonology

    Nemours Children's Hospital Delaware

    1600 Rockland Rd, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Ambika Shenoy is a Pediatric Pulmonologist practicing medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Shenoy is rated as a Distinguished 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 Cystic Fibrosis, Secondary Immunodeficiency (SID), Newborn Jaundice, and Congenital Unilateral Pulmonary Hypoplasia.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pediatrics | Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pediatrics | Internal Medicine

    Transitional Care Practice Special Needs

    501 West 14th Tctrcr Street, Wilmington Hospital Health Center, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Neal Emery is a primary care provider, practicing in Pediatrics and Internal Medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Emery is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and Sickle Cell Disease.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Robert A. Heinle is a pediatric pulmonologist and sleep physician. He's director of the hospital's Pediatric Pulmonary Fellowship, medical director of the Pulmonary Function Laboratory and co-director of the neuromuscular clinic. He's also assistant professor of both internal medicine and pediatrics at Sidney Kimmel Medical College. I grew up in a big family. There were always kids around, so I had a lot of practice interacting with, and looking out for, children who were younger than me. As a result, I learned early on that I'm good with kids and enjoy working with them. Growing up, I decided that becoming an aerospace engineer would be fun and exciting, so I actually became one and worked at NASA. But, after spending all day, every day staring at computer screens and not interacting with people, I began to rethink my decision. It occurred to me that the perfect combination of my affinity for science, math and physics, and love for working with children would be to become a pediatrician. So, I went back to school. I'm more than glad I did. I love being a pediatrician. I think I appreciate even more the opportunity of working with kids and helping them because of the extra work and commitment it took to go back to school to become a doctor. I love helping children get better if they are sick, and watching them develop from babies to toddlers, then to being big kids and teens. I love working with their families, too. I absolutely love to teach. I teach my own children, and I thoroughly enjoy educating the next generation of physicians as the program director for our hospital's pediatric pulmonary fellowship and as an assistant professor of internal medicine and pediatrics at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University. I assist in the education of our hospital's general pediatrics residents and medical students. I also like to help educate my patients and their families about the medical conditions they're facing and about their treatments and home care. I feel that the best tool in health care is, very often, education. I really want to make sure that each patient and family is taken care of — completely. So I make sure that I spend the time each one needs in our appointments together. For this reason, I may run a little late, especially as the day goes on. I turn that into a promise that I make to all of my patients and families: I may not be on time for our appointment, but I will always give you all the time that you need. In addition to making sure each patient's medicine and treatment is squared away, it’s my goal to make sure each patient — and their family — leaves with a better understanding of asthma or whatever pulmonary condition they’re dealing with. Dr. Heinle is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 30 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Subglottic Stenosis, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Hypochondroplasia, Osteotomy, and Adenoidectomy. Dr. Heinle is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Pulmonary MAP1

    4745 Ogletown Stanton Road, Suite 220, 
    Newark, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Mark Jones is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Newark, Delaware. Dr. Jones is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 38 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Lung Metastases, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Asthma in Children, and Asthma.

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

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Experience:
    38+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Lauren Greenawald is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. She has been practicing medicine for over 38 years. Dr. Greenawald is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Trisomy 13, Subglottic Stenosis, Cystic Fibrosis, and Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome. Dr. Greenawald is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Family Medicine

    Transitional Care Practice Special Needs

    501 West 14th Tctrcr Street, Wilmington Hospital Health Center, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Tracey Petrides is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Petrides is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 7 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Moebius Syndrome, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hindi

    Dr. Vandna Passi is a pediatric pulmonologist at Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children. She's an author of peer-reviewed medical journal articles, an invited presenter and an active researcher. I always wanted to work with children, and knew I wanted to be a pediatrician since I finished college. Then, in medical school, I spent a lot of my fourth year in pediatric subspecialties. Now, I get a lot of satisfaction seeing my patients over the long term — I can see their progress and development, and watch them as they grow. Children are such fun to work with and it can be simpler to approach their health issues than with adults. It's very fulfilling.One reason I chose pediatric pulmonology was because I liked the mix of being able to see and help children on an outpatient basis (helping kids on well and sick visits in our clinic) and also provide inpatient care to children who are acutely sick and admitted to the hospital. In my residency, I saw a lot of inner-city children. Many became seriously ill simply because their asthma wasn't being cared for, they hadn't been diagnosed properly, or they (and their families) hadn't been properly educated on how to manage their care. This was way more common than it should have been. I knew I wanted to help these kids, as well as all those who had other pulmonology issues, too. I'm passionate about working with patients and families to educate them on the conditions they’re dealing with, and how to prevent serious episodes and achieve the best possible quality of life. I'm also passionate about our hospital and staff continually setting best practices for treating children with pulmonology conditions and following those procedures routinely. I'm especially interested in these procedures being followed in our intensive care unit (ICU), as well as in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and outpatient clinic. A big part of what I do is educate families on what they need to know regarding their child's condition and health, including proper medication and care. I can't be with their child at all times, so it's really about empowering each family to help their child's quality of life. In children with asthma, for instance, I feel they should never be limited. Together with their family, I want to help them do whatever they want to do in life. Dr. Passi is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 18 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Subglottic Stenosis, Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome, Thanatophoric Dysplasia, and Kozlowski Warren Fisher Syndrome. Dr. Passi is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Internal Medicine

    First State Medical Associates

    2055 Limestone Road, Suite 111, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Marcia Castro is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Castro is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Asthma, Vitamin D Deficiency, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, and Endoscopy. Dr. Castro is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pediatrics | General Practice
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pediatrics | General Practice

    Nemours Children's Health, Dover

    201 Towne Centre Drive, Suite 500, 
    Dover, DE 
    Experience:
    33+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    As a young child I was hospitalized several times. My own pediatricians were role models for me and influenced my decision to become a doctor. In medical school I had the chance to be mentored by Dr. Mohsen Ziai, MD, a world-renowned pediatrician who fueled my desire to go into general pediatrics. I feel that caring for the whole child is paramount and love this quote from the German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer: “The test of the morality of a society is what it does for its children.” While I practice general pediatrics, I particularly have an interest in infectious diseases and allergy/asthma. I also over the years have grown to enjoy treating youth athletes, having watched my own 3 adult children grow up playing various sports. Evidence-based care and safe care are the cornerstones of how I try to approach each patient, to ensure a quality outcome at the end of the day.  Each day some child makes me laugh and that simple, joyful interaction is what keeps me going after all these years. I fully embrace the Nemours goal to produce the healthiest generation of children and therefore make time to engage in advocacy, working with organizations and government to do things that improve their lives, health, and safety. I have served as an appointed member of several state and local committees and work groups, past president of the Delaware Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, past vice president of the Medical Society of DE and currently am active with the Government Affairs Committee of the Medical Society of Delaware, serving as its Vice Chair/Chair Elect. I have a strong connection to my church, Grace Church Dover, and serve on its Missions Committee. Dr. Sheahan 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 Cluster Headache, Horseshoe Kidney, Food Allergy, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Stent Placement. Dr. Sheahan is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Experience:
    39+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Seema Rani is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. She has been practicing medicine for over 39 years. Dr. Rani is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Subglottic Stenosis, Hypochondroplasia, and Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome. Dr. Rani is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Elena Stekolchik is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Stekolchik is rated as an Experienced 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 Trisomy 13, Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome, Subglottic Stenosis, and Bronchogenic Cyst. Dr. Stekolchik is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Family Medicine

    Primary Care FMC WPC

    501 West 14th Fmc Street, Primary Care Suite, 2nd Floor, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Ashley Panichelli is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Panichelli is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. Her clinical expertise encompasses Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Familial Hypertension, Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, and Hypertension.

    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pediatric Radiology | Pediatrics | Radiology
    Experienced in Cystic Fibrosis
    Pediatric Radiology | Pediatrics | Radiology

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Experience:
    11+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    David Saul was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pa. He attended Drexel University for undergraduate studies in biology and premedical education. David also attended Drexel University's College of Medicine to obtain his MD. Subsequently, he completed his internship and residency in diagnostic radiology at Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. He completed a fellowship in pediatric radiology at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. He has worked as an attending radiologist in both private and academic practices, before joining Nemours in September 2019. I believe that children are uniquely deserving of our best care because they are innocent, vulnerable and often unaware or not fully aware of their disease. Being a sick kid can be terrifying, and I want to be there to help in some way. I also greatly appreciate and enjoy how often children can recover from seemingly insurmountable disease. Far from making me sad to see illness in a child, it makes me hopeful to think about his/her potential for health and wellness and to enjoy a full life after receiving appropriate treatment. I am driven by a sense of justice, and that the children we serve deserve our best. I care deeply that we provide care in the most up to date, efficient, honest and accurate way possible.  My medial interests include: Education Thoracic Imaging Cardiac Imaging Body Imaging Ultrasound MRI I try to lead by example, to give my best effort for every child, and take as much time as needed with each family that I encounter. I know that many of the families I see, by the time they arrive in my department, are having the worst day of their lives. I want to provide comfort, reassurance and a smile in those times of difficulty because I would want the same for my family. Dr. Saul is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. He is also highly rated in 127 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Caudal Regression Syndrome, Spondylocarpotarsal Synostosis Syndrome, Scoliosis, Hypochondroplasia, and Angioplasty. Dr. Saul is board certified in American Board Of Radiology.

    Pulmonary Medicine
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Elizabeth Brown is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Brown is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. Her clinical expertise encompasses Cystic Fibrosis and Asthma. Dr. Brown is board certified in Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.

    Pulmonary Medicine
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Experience:
    16+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Kelly Halbert is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. She has been practicing medicine for over 16 years. Dr. Halbert is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. Her clinical expertise encompasses Cystic Fibrosis and Asthma. Dr. Halbert is board certified in American Nurses Credentialing Center.

    Pulmonary Medicine
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Experience:
    6+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Spanish

    Dr. Jodi E. Gustave is a pulmonologist and sleep physician at Nemurs/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children. She's been a member of American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), American Thoracic Society (ATS), and American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), a peer-reviewed medical journal author and an invited presenter. This is a no-brainer. Children are amazing little beings and the future of our world. I love children's optimism and resilience and their simple, forgiving ways. They are just so precious and deserve the best of care. I practice medicine because of my curiosity about the human body and how we can help to make it work in the best way possible. When it comes to my work, I am passionate about thoroughly treating my patients and trying not to over-treat or over-study them. I am passionate about getting things right — and if I don’t know the answers, finding the person who does. I would love one day to be able to dedicate much of my time to volunteer work — to helping local or international communities in need. I have not been able to volunteer much in the medical field yet, but I was able to volunteer my time as an interpreter for Spanish-speaking families in the past and at a homeless shelter. Both experiences were so unbelievably rewarding and humbling. On the day-to-day, I try to make a difference by being humble and open to sharing any knowledge and time that I can. Dr. Gustave is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. She is also highly rated in 7 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Hypochondroplasia, Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome, Subglottic Stenosis, and Irregular Sleep-Wake Syndrome. Dr. Gustave is board certified in American Board Of Pediatrics.

    Pulmonary Medicine
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware

    1600 Rockland Road, 
    Wilmington, DE 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Jennifer Marriner is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Marriner is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. Her clinical expertise encompasses Hypochondroplasia, Cystic Fibrosis, and Asthma. Dr. Marriner is board certified in Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.

    Showing 1-20 of 22

    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 in Delaware, US?

    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 in Delaware, US?

    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 in Delaware, US?

    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 in Delaware, US?

    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 in Delaware, US?

    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 in Delaware, US?

    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 in Delaware, US?

    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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