What is it about ?
Bronchiectasis is an abnormal dilation of the bronchi (small airways). This is a rare disease of the lungs.
Our respiratory system is made up of the mouth, nose, windpipe and lungs. The trachea is connected to the lungs by branches called bronchi.
When the bronchi are damaged and dilated, it is more difficult to remove the accumulated mucus, dust and germs. Bronchiectasis is an ideal breeding ground for long-lasting or recurrent lower respiratory tract infections (bronchitis, pneumonia). These infections, in turn, further damage the lung tissue. Recurrent upper respiratory infections, such as sinusitis or ear infections, can also be the result of bronchiectasis.
Once in 2, the exact cause remains unknown. Bronchiectasis can be present from birth (congenital), or appear later from another lung condition.
Possible causes are, among others, cystic fibrosis, immune system disorder, pneumonia, obstruction by any object or tumor, for example, inhalation of harmful substances (also, for example, in case of reflux), lung diseases such asasthma or chronic bronchitis (COPD) and certain diseases that affect the whole body (systemic diseases).
How to recognize it?
People with bronchiectasis mainly suffer from a persistent cough, associated with a large production of phlegm. Repeated periods of fever and infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia are also characteristic. Sometimes it happens to spit some blood. You may also hear a hissing sound when blowing air out of your lungs (when exhaling).
How is the diagnosis made?
The doctor will start by asking you about your symptoms and asking if you smoke. Then he will listen to your lungs. In case of bronchiectasis, he will hear a rough crackling sound when you take in air (inhale) or a hissing sound when you blow out air (exhale).
a lung function test (spirometry) and a simple x-ray of the lungs usually show few abnormalities, especially in relation to complaints. The doctor will confirm the diagnosis with a CT scan of the lungs.
Examinations and treatment are usually taken care of by the lung specialist (pulmonologist). Follow-up can be provided by the general practitioner.
What can you do ?
Do not smoke and also avoid breathing second-hand smoke (passive smoking). Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Get enough exercise. A physiotherapist can assist you in this process. It can also help you strengthen your respiratory muscles.
It is recommended that you get the flu shot every year, and every five years against pneumococci.
What can your doctor do?
Bronchiectasis cannot be cured. Treatment is purely targeted at relieving symptoms, for example by means of respiratory physiotherapy sessions, antibiotics in case of infection and inhalation of bronchodilators and cortisone.
If the effect of these measures is not sufficient or if the bronchiectasis is limited to one lung lobe, the affected part can be removed by surgery. The operation is rarely indicated (in 5% of cases). A lung transplant may be necessary in the case of severe deterioration of lung function.
Want to know more?
- Stop smoking. It’s possible – Tabacstop
- Physical activity – Eat Move – Health question
- Move at any age… After 50 too! – Eat Move – Health Question
- For the vaccine, I hesitate … Is it serious doctor? – Health question
- Flu – Vaccination-Info.be
- Meningitis, pneumonia and pneumococcal septicemia – Vaccination-Info.be
Are you looking for more specialized help?
- Smoking Assistance Center (CAF®) – FARES – Respiratory Affections Fund
- Tobacco specialists – FARES – Respiratory Affections Fund