BRONCHIECTASIS

BAsic information

description

A rare lung disease, in which the bronchial tubes become enlarged and distended (stretched). Pockets form where infections may develop. Bronchiectasis can affect all age groups.

frequent signs and symptoms

• Frequent coughing. There may be foul-smelling mucus. The mucus may be green or yellow. Sometimes the mucus is flecked with blood.
• Chest pain and wheezing.
• Repeated lung infections.
• Shortness of breath.
• Feeling tired and weak.
• Weight loss.

causes

The bronchial walls become damaged and weak, usually as a result of infections. This damage may develop over years. The cilia (small hairs) that help keep the bronchial tubes clean are destroyed. This allows dust, bacteria, and mucus to accumulate.

risk increases with

• Repeated lung infections such as pneumonia.
• Chronic bronchitis.
• Inhaling a foreign object (such as a peanut).
• Tuberculosis, lung cancer, or lung abscess.
• Cystic fibrosis.
• Family history of lung disease.
• Cigarette smoking.
• Weak immune system due to illness or drugs.

preventive measures

• None specific. Avoid risk factors where possible:

Don't smoke.

Obtain medical care for lung infections.

Prompt removal of any foreign body that has entered the lungs.

Get vaccines for flu and pneumonia.

expected outcomes

With treatment, many patients can lead nearly normal lives without major problems.

POSsible complications

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Repeated pneumonia or other infections.
• Cor pulmonale (heart disorder due to lung disease).
• Hospital care and breathing support may be needed for complications.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms. Medical tests may include blood or sputum (material coughed up from the lungs) tests, CT, X-ray, bronchoscopy (looking in the airways with a lighted tube), and pulmonary function tests.
• Treatment includes postural drainage to remove lung secretions, drugs (as needed), treatment for underlying disorder (such as cystic fibrosis), and lifestyle changes.
• Postural drainage involves ridding the lungs of the secretions. You will be taught the proper technique. It is usually done by lying on a bed and hanging your head over the side with the affected lung uppermost. Clapping the chest can help mucus drain. A family member can do this by hand or a mechanical device can be used. This routine is done 1 to 3 times a day.
• Quit smoking. Find a way to stop that works for you.
• Surgery to remove areas of damaged lung tissue may be recommended if other treatments are not effective.
• To learn more: American Lung Association, 61 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10006, (800) 586-4872; website: www.lungusa.org.

medications

Your health care provider may prescribe:

• Antibiotic drugs for infections.
• Inhaled beta-agonists to assist breathing.
• Drugs, such as guaifenesin, to loosen mucus in the lungs.
• Drugs to treat any underlying disorder.

activity

Remain as active as possible.

diet

Drink a at least eight glasses of fluid a day.

notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of bronchiectasis.
• Symptoms of lung infection develop or fever occurs.
• Sputum contains blood, changes color, or thickens.
• Chest pain increases or you become short of breath.