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Six weeks ago I had gone to the CF Doc and my lung function had gotten a little worse - FEV1 was down to 57% from 62% the time that I was there before. IGE levels in my blood were really elevated that time (the 62% one) so since my lung function had decreased they took the test again (from blood) and looked for Asperilligus colonization in my sputum. Mold allergies are quite common in CF, since the moist environment of mucus makes it easy to grow and our weakened defense against lung infections make it so a lot of of can’t fight it that easy.

Today I went for the follow up from that last appointment six weeks ago. Great news - FEV1 is back up to 63% (it was 54% in September). IGE levels closer to normal. No sign of Asperilligus in my lungs. The theory my doctor gave on why my IGE levels were so high that time was that I must have been somewhere that triggered an immune response in my body close to the time blood was drawn.

I think the combination of rigorous airway clearance (with the vest), exercise, eating well, and the few medications I take are causing my body to actually fight things better without having to resort to medication. My doc agrees, and was happy to see my lower IGE levels without them having to do anything. I am noticing that the weather change and the pollen are not effecting me that much this year.

Doc advised now that it’s getting warmer to do outdoor activities - humid and salty air can actually do good for my lungs. He also suggested maybe water sports or beach activities - so maybe I’ll start surfing or just go to the beach and looking hot with my 167 pound 14% body fat self