Symptoms
- Chronic cough with thick sputum (sometimes foul-smelling)
- Recurrent chest infections
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood (sometimes)
- Fatigue
- Chest pain with infections
Causes
- Severe or recurrent lung infections (childhood pneumonia, tuberculosis, whooping cough)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Primary ciliary dyskinesia
- Immune deficiencies
- Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
- Inhaled foreign bodies
- Inflammatory diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, IBD)
Treatment
- Airway clearance techniques (chest physiotherapy, devices)
- Inhaled bronchodilators and sometimes corticosteroids
- Antibiotics for exacerbations
- Long-term azithromycin in selected patients
- Vaccinations (flu, pneumococcal)
- Treat underlying cause if identified
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
References
- European Respiratory Society. Bronchiectasis Guidelines.