What is bronchiectasis?

Bronchiectasis (say "brawn-kee-ECK-tuh-sus") is a lung problem in which the breathing tubes are stretched and become larger. The buildup of mucus causes the stretching and can lead to swelling and infections. You may find it harder to breathe and cough up mucus out of your lungs. Some people are born with it. Other people get it because of another health problem, usually cystic fibrosis or a lung infection such as pneumonia or tuberculosis.

Symptoms are often different for everyone. But a cough that brings up mucus, or sputum, is common. The condition is usually treated by avoiding things that can irritate your lungs and by using techniques and medicines to help clear mucus out of your lungs. You may need antibiotics.

Symptoms are different for everyone. But common symptoms include a cough that brings up mucus and shortness of breath. Some people have sharp chest pain.

Bronchiectasis is treated by avoiding things that can irritate your lungs. Your doctor may give you medicines and teach you techniques that help clear mucus out of your lungs. You may need antibiotics. If your symptoms are severe, you may need oxygen therapy or surgery.

Bronchiectasis is diagnosed with a chest CT scan. Other tests your doctor may do include a chest X-ray, blood tests to look for infection, a test to find bacteria in your mucus, and tests to measure how well your lungs are working (lung function).

There are things you can do to care for yourself when you have bronchiectasis. Follow your doctor's instructions for removing mucus from your lungs. And take your medicines as directed. Be active, which can help loosen mucus in your lungs. And drink plenty of fluids.

Bronchiectasis (say "brawn-kee-ECK-tuh-sus") is a lung problem in which the breathing tubes (airways) in the lungs are stretched and become larger. It has no cure. But there are treatments that can help you feel better and stay healthier.