Information about bronchiectasis and its treatment
Bronchiectasis is a long-standing disease of the airways which leads to abnormal and irreversible dilatation of the airways.
This damage impairs the natural drainage of bronchial secretions which can become chronically infected resulting in mild to moderate airway obstruction.
Symptoms
- chronic productive cough
- frequent chest infections
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- chest pain.
When to see a doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you have persistent and recurrent chest infections and chronic coughing.
Bronchiectasis can be caused by:
- previous severe infections (pneumonias)
- a defective immune system
- rare genetic conditions (eg cystic fibrosis)
- other chronic conditions.
The most commonl tests for bronchiectasis are:
- chest x-ray
- CT scan
- blood tests
- lung function tests
- sweat test
- other tests for cystic fibrosis.
The mainstays of treatment for bronchiectasis are:
- clearing secretions (chest physiotherapy)
- medications, especially antibiotics.
Prevention
People with bronchiectasis can prevent symptoms by:
- staying healthy and active
- optimising secretion clearance
- prevention of infection through regular vaccinations.