Bronchiectasis

It is a chronic condition where the walls of bronchi are thickened and enlarged from inflammation People with bronchiectasis may have periodic flareups called exacerbations. Due to damage of walls, bronchi are no longer able to drain the secretions effectively leading to mucous buildup and nidus of infection which further leads to more damage creating a vicious cycle.

Symptoms

• It includes coughing up sputum, shortness of breath especially during flare ups, fatigue, fever, coughing up blood, chest pain, clubbing –thickening of skin under nails.

Diagnosis

• It is made mostly with chest CT. Additionally; sputum culture can also be done.

Treatment

• It includes postural drainage with antibiotics, mucous thinning medications, airway clearance devices and quitting smoking.