Reproductive Symptoms
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Infertility: Men are generally infertile due to obstructive azoospermia; however, spermatogenesis is intact, and sperm can be recovered for in vitro fertilization.
In women, there is difficulty in becoming pregnant, as the accumulation of mucus blocks the cervical channels and, in addition, malnutrition also makes pregnancy difficult. This means that one of the characteristic symptoms of cystic fibrosis is infertility both in both the sexes.
Other Symptoms
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Extremely salty sweat and skin: The disease gives rise to increased concentration of sweat and reduction of the content of water, sodium, and chlorine in secretions. This subsequently makes the concentration of sodium and chlorine in the sweat to rise since these substances are usually excreted in the sweat. [6]
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Hepatobiliary disease: Biliary obstruction can result in hepatosplenomegaly, jaundice, ascites, and edema. There may also be esophageal varices with hematemesis and severe liver failure, requiring transplantation.
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Abnormal and foul-smelling stools: The production of abnormal or fouls smelling stool is a characteristic feature of cystic fibrosis. Sometimes, the stool may be mucus coated.