Bronchiectasis is a condition where the lungs’ airways are abnormally stretched and scarred, resulting in mucus buildup. Often bronchiectasis is caused by an infection or other condition that injures the walls of the airways or prevents mucus from being cleared. People with bronchiectasis have periodic flare-ups of breathing difficulties, called exacerbations.

What causes bronchiectasis?   

There are many health-related problems that can cause bronchiectasis, including lung infections, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s, or someone can be born with it, relating to their lung development as a fetus. However, there is also the possibility of not knowing the root cause of bronchiectasis.  

What are common symptoms? 

• Shortness of breath 
• Wheezing 
• Daily cough  
• Coughing up mucus  
• Coughing up blood 
• Chest pain 
• Fever or chills 
• Fatigue or weakness 
• Recurrent colds  
• Mucus with a bad smell 

How is it diagnosed? 

Early diagnosis of bronchiectasis is important to prevent any further lung damage. The best diagnostic test to confirm bronchiectasis is a high-resolution computed tomography scan (CT scan) of the chest. Other tests that can be done if a patient is presenting with symptoms of bronchiectasis are:  

• a thorough patient history to determine if any other underlying conditions are present 
• blood tests, sputum cultures 
• chest radiographs (Chest X-Ray) 
• pulmonary function test 

Are there available treatments?

Medications:  

• Antibiotics to treat lung infections 
• Bronchodilators 
• Corticosteroids 

Chest Physical Therapy for Airway Clearance:

• Chest physical therapy or chest physio is a therapy to help loosen mucus in the chest so it can be expelled by coughing. Chest physical therapy is typically done sitting or lying down. Pounding on the chest with a fist or using electric devices such as a chest clapper or inflated vest can be used to loosen the mucus. 
• Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure Devices are also commonly used. This device causes vibrations in the airway. The vibrations help to loosen mucus so it can be coughed up and out easier. 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation:

• Pulmonary rehabilitation is an exercise and education program to help patients manage their condition. Education can include topics on holistic ways to manage their lung disease, such as quitting smoking, nutrition, exercise, as well as the importance of staying up to date on immunizations and washing hands to help prevent lung infections.