Living with a chronic cough and frequent chest infections can be debilitating. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you may have bronchiectasis, a condition that requires specialized care. At Premier Lung & Sleep Institute, our pulmonary experts are dedicated to diagnosing and managing bronchiectasis to reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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What is Bronchiectasis?

Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition where the airways are widened and damaged, leading to a build-up of mucus. This pooling of mucus makes you more susceptible to frequent and severe lung infections. The result is a persistent cough, daily phlegm production, and a higher risk of recurrent chest infections.

Common Causes

Bronchiectasis can develop from a variety of causes, including:

  • Prior severe infections: Pneumonia, tuberculosis, or whooping cough can cause lasting damage.
  • Immune problems: Conditions that weaken the immune system can lead to recurrent infections.
  • Chronic bacteria: Persistent bacterial infections, such as Pseudomonas, can contribute to the condition.
  • Aspiration/reflux or ciliary disorders: Issues with swallowing or the tiny hairs in the airways can cause problems.
  • Sometimes the cause is unknown: In some cases, the condition develops without a clear reason.

Signs & Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of bronchiectasis is crucial for early intervention. Common symptoms include:

  • A daily cough with phlegm (sputum) production.
  • Frequent chest infections.
  • Shortness of breath and fatigue.
  • Coughing up blood (this requires prompt medical attention).

Diagnosis & Treatment

Our approach to bronchiectasis is comprehensive and targeted. We begin with a thorough diagnostic process to identify the root cause of your condition and guide our treatment plan.

  • Diagnostic Tools:
    • High-Resolution CT Scan: This imaging test shows detailed airway changes, which are key to diagnosing bronchiectasis.
    • Sputum Cultures: We analyze your phlegm to identify the specific bacteria causing infections, which helps us choose the right antibiotics.
    • Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): These tests help us monitor your lung function over time.
  • Treatment & Self-Care:
    • Airway-clearance techniques: We teach you specialized breathing devices and physiotherapy techniques to help clear mucus from your airways.
    • Antibiotics: We provide antibiotics to treat flare-ups and manage chronic infections.
    • Vaccinations: We recommend vaccines to prevent infections that could worsen your condition.
    • Treating contributors: We’ll address underlying issues like asthma or reflux.
    • Pulmonary rehabilitation: A supervised program of exercise and education to improve your stamina and reduce symptoms.

Our Procedures & Services

  • PFTs: On-site pulmonary function tests to track your lung health.
  • Bronchoscopy: If needed, we can perform a bronchoscopy to obtain samples or evaluate the cause of bleeding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is bronchiectasis the same as COPD? A: No, bronchiectasis is a different condition from COPD, though some people may have both. Both conditions can benefit from similar management strategies, such as pulmonary rehabilitation, vaccines, and early treatment of infections.