Bronchiectases refers to a medical condition characterized by the abnormal, permanent widening and distortion of the bronchi, which are the branching airways that carry air in and out of the lungs. These dilated bronchi are caused by chronic inflammation and damage to the bronchial tubes, often resulting from repeated infections or other underlying health conditions.
The most common symptom of bronchiectases is a chronic cough that produces large amounts of sputum or phlegm. Other symptoms may include breathlessness, wheezing, chest pain, and recurrent respiratory infections. In some cases, the sputum coughed up may be foul-smelling or blood-tinged.
Bronchiectases can occur due to numerous factors, including infections such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, autoimmune diseases, cystic fibrosis, primary ciliary dyskinesia, and inhaling foreign objects or toxic substances. The damage to the bronchial walls leads to the loss of normal airway clearance mechanisms, causing mucus buildup and recurrent infections.
Diagnosis of bronchiectases involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as a chest X-ray, CT scan, or bronchoscopy. Treatment aims to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and slow down disease progression. It typically involves a combination of antibiotics to treat infections, bronchodilators to improve airflow, chest physiotherapy to aid in mucus clearance, and in severe cases, surgical removal of the affected bronchi.
Although bronchiectases is a chronic condition with no known cure, with appropriate treatment and management, individuals with this condition can lead fulfilling lives and minimize the impact of symptoms on their daily activities. Regular follow-up visits with healthcare professionals are essential to monitor disease progression and prevent complications.
