Bronchiectasis: When Airways Stay Damaged and Breathing Becomes Difficult

Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition where the airways (bronchi) become damaged, widened, and scarred over time. This makes it difficult for the lungs to clear out mucus, leading to repeated lung infections, inflammation, and trouble breathing.

In a healthy lung, the airways are smooth and flexible. But in bronchiectasis, the walls of the airways are stretched and weakened, causing mucus to build up. This trapped mucus becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to frequent infections and more lung damage—a cycle that worsens if not treated.

What Causes Bronchiectasis?

• Previous lung infections like pneumonia, tuberculosis, or whooping cough

• Cystic fibrosis (a genetic condition)

• Autoimmune diseases

• Allergic reactions to fungi (e.g., allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis)

• Impaired immune system

• In many cases, the cause may remain unknown (idiopathic bronchiectasis)

Common Symptoms:

• Chronic, daily cough with thick mucus

• Frequent chest infections

• Wheezing or breathlessness

• Chest discomfort

• Fatigue or low energy

• Coughing up blood (in severe cases)

Symptoms may develop slowly over months or years, and without proper care, the condition can worsen.

How is it Diagnosed?

Bronchiectasis is diagnosed using high-resolution CT scans, chest X-rays, sputum cultures, and lung function tests. Identifying the root cause helps guide the best treatment approach.

Treatment Options:

There is no cure, but bronchiectasis can be managed well. Treatment aims to:

• Clear mucus using chest physiotherapy or special breathing techniques

• Treat infections with antibiotics

• Open airways with bronchodilators or inhalers

• Manage inflammation with corticosteroids (if needed)

• Pulmonary rehabilitation for lung health and stamina

• In rare cases, surgery may be needed for localized disease