Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory illness characterized by abnormal and permanent enlargement of the bronchi, or major airways in the lungs.  This structural damage impairs mucus evacuation, which causes recurring infections, inflammation, and gradual lung damage.

Causes
Bronchiectasis can be caused by a number of different disorders.  Common reasons include past severe lung infections such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, immune system problems, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), and hereditary diseases such as cystic fibrosis.  Idiopathic bronchiectasis refers to cases when the actual cause is uncertain.

Symptoms

  • chronic productive cough, often accompanied by enormous amounts of thick, foul-smelling sputum, is the distinguishing feature
  • shortness of breath
  • chest discomfort
  • wheezing
  • exhaustion and lethargy
  • recurring chest infections.
  •  Patients may develop finger clubbing over time, as well as weight loss and respiratory failure in extreme cases.

Diagnosis
Clinical history, physical examination, and imaging studies are commonly used to make a diagnosis.  High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans are the gold standard for detecting bronchial dilatation and other distinguishing characteristics.  Sputum cultures and lung function tests may be used to determine illness severity and underlying infections.

Treatment and Management

Bronchiectasis is an incurable illness, but its advancement can be delayed with proper treatment.  Airway clearing treatments, such as chest physiotherapy and devices like PEP (positive expiratory pressure) masks, inhaled bronchodilators, and mucolytics, are used to loosen mucus.  Antibiotics may be required to treat and prevent infections for an extended period of time or intermittently.  In some circumstances, surgery may be considered for localized illness.

Conclusion
Bronchiectasis is a serious but treatable lung condition is bronchiectasis.  A thorough treatment plan, frequent follow-up, and early diagnosis are essential for enhancing quality of life and lowering consequences.  In order to direct long-term care and stop the progression of disease, pulmonologists are essential.