Bronchiectasis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to bronchiectasis, covering symptoms, diagnosis and treatment to reduce infections and improve lung health.
Treatment usually begins with
Pulmonologist Assessment
High-Resolution CT Scan
Airway Clearance Therapy
Medical Management
Treatment focuses on clearing mucus, treating infections promptly and preventing further airway damage.
You may need this evaluated if...
A bronchiectasis evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- Daily cough with large amounts of mucus
- Recurrent chest infections
- Breathlessness with exertion
- Coughing up blood-streaked mucus
Bronchiectasis is a manageable chronic condition, and a structured care plan significantly reduces flare-ups.
What is Bronchiectasis?
Bronchiectasis is a condition where the airways become permanently widened and scarred, leading to mucus build-up and repeated chest infections.
Permanent Airway Changes
Widened airways don't return to normal, so management focuses on prevention.
Often Linked to Past Infections
Can follow severe childhood infections, TB or other lung conditions.
Cycle of Infection
Mucus build-up and infection can reinforce each other without treatment.
Well Managed with Care
Regular airway clearance and prompt infection treatment greatly reduce flare-ups.
Common Symptoms
- Chronic cough with large amounts of mucus
- Recurrent chest infections
- Breathlessness with exertion
- Fatigue
- Blood-streaked sputum
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, environmental and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
High-Resolution CT Scan
Confirms the diagnosis and shows the extent of airway widening.
Sputum Culture
Identifies bacteria contributing to recurrent infections.
Pulmonary Function Tests
Assess the impact on breathing capacity.
Blood Tests
Investigate underlying causes such as immune deficiency.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Care
- Airway clearance techniques and chest physiotherapy
- Antibiotics for acute infections and, in select cases, long-term prevention
- Bronchodilator inhalers
- Vaccination against flu and pneumonia
Procedural Care
Surgical removal of a severely affected, localised segment of lung is considered in select cases with recurrent, severe infections limited to one area.
Treatment decisions are based on symptoms, test results, lung function and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly is important for the best outcome.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing symptoms.
- Daily mucus production needing evaluation
- Recurrent chest infections
Seek Urgent Care
Call for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Coughing up significant amounts of blood
- Severe breathlessness with fever
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right pulmonologist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right pulmonologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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