throat clearing

[barrydy]

I am a carrier of the heterozygous cystic fibrosis gene. In spite of that, I am a very healthy and active 56 year old male. It is my understanding that carrying this gene causes a thickening of one's mucous. Could this be the reason I have to clear my throat so often? I also notice that I have to clear after eating, especially milk or orange juice.

[National Jewish Health]

There is evidence to suggest that carriers of a cystic fibrosis (CF) gene, with one or more mutations, have an increased incidence of a number of diseases, including chronic rhinosinusitis, which is inflammation of the nose and sinuses.  There can also be a possible increase in other diseases such as pancreatitis and bronchiectasis, which is a chronic disease of the lungs that is characterized by abnormally dilated bronchi and a predisposition to recurrent infection.  Thus there is reason to suspect that being a carrier has predisposed you to excessive mucus production.  Given the mucus abnormalities in CF, the viscosity and/or other features of this mucus might be abnormal for the same reason.

It would be important for all other members of your family to determine if they are carriers and sensitive to the reproductive issues associated with that.

[barrydy]

Many thanks for your insight. Yes, I have experienced pancreatitis and was cured by means of a stint and sphincterotomy. I also am quite susceptible to bronchitis, though with age I seem to have developed a lot more resistance. Modern medicine is fabulous. Thanks again, doc, for taking your valuable time to share your knowledge with me.