About to have sweat test in UK

[Guest guest]

My 5 month old son is to have a 'sweat test' for cystic fibrosis. My

question is..

Could the fact that he is breastfed and taking a low dose antibiotic

mean that symptoms he'd have had otherwise, are absent? e.g.

respiritory infections, more extreme weight probs. These are his

symptoms:

He has never lost weight, but his weight gain slowed at 8 weeks after

a urine infection for which he is still taking antibiotics (the

infection is gone but he must continue on a low dose until his

kidneys are tested - I don't think this could be CF related - correct

me if I'm wrong). His weight is increasing but is not recovering to

it's original level as expected.

He had 'breastfeeding jaundice' i.e. prolongued to about 6/7 weeks.

I think he feeds a lot (at least 4 times in the night and lots during

the day) and he is taking solids (baby rice and veg) v well. He does

taste a little salty though I may be exaggerating this - is some

level of saltiness normal? .. I only checked after the test was

suggested and reading that it was a symptom.

He also poos quite frequently - though again I'm not really sure

what's normal in that respect.

There's no family history that we're aware of.

My immediate concern is that I am due to return to work (full time)

on monday (tomorrow) and therefore the level of breastfeeding will

decrease. I don't want to do this if it could affect his health.

Since posting this on another list (cystic-l) I have decided to go to

work and express milk.

Also, does anyone know how long I might expect to wait for this test

(UK NHS)?

Any opinions or suggestions very much appreciated.

Jeannie.

's mum in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.

jeanniebrady@...