Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition where there is abnormal enlargement of the airways. As a result, the airways are unable to expel the phlegm properly, and this increases the risk of infection in the airways. Some causes of bronchiectasis can include previous lung infections, lack of immunity to infection and hereditary conditions such as cystic fibrosis. However, in many patients, there is no clear underlying cause.



Common symptoms of bronchiectasis include frequent coughing up of large amounts of phlegm, breathlessness and tiredness. Patients may also suffer from acute worsening of symptoms (known as an exacerbation) when they acquire an infection or inflammation of the airways. 

The lung specialist will confirm the diagnosis with a computerized tomography (CT) scan of your chest. In addition, further investigations such as phlegm tests, blood tests and bronchoscopy may be performed to determine the cause of bronchiectasis. 

Although the damage to the airways caused by bronchiectasis cannot be reversed, it is still important to clear the phlegm from the airways andprevent further lung infections. This can be done through chest physiotherapy, antibiotics, mucus clearance medications and regular vaccinations.