Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis refers to the dilatation of the smaller airways and thickening of their walls. These form pockets where the phlegm can collect and act as a seat of infection.

Patients with bronchiectasis may suffer from chronic cough productive of mucus, recurrent chest infections, shortness of breath and wheeze.

Causes may include:

• Some forms of immune deficiency
• Cystic fibrosis especially in childhood
• Some inherited disorders
• Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
• Mycobacterial infection
• Past infections
• Reflux may also play a role

Many times however cause is not found.

If you are diagnosed with bronchiectasis, the specialist may organize a number of tests to find out cause. This may include blood tests, sputum tests, CT scan of the chest, lung function tests and a bronchoscopy.

Bronchiectasis  is a chronic condition and management includes:

• Early treatment of infections
• Infection prevention–immunisation
• Sputum clearance and chest physiotherapy
• Inhalers may help
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Treatment of the underlying cause found
• Surgery for patients with localised bronchiectasis
• Long term antibiotics

The specialist will give you an action plan to manage your bronchiectasis properly.