HealthInfo Canterbury
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a long-term lung condition where the breathing tubes in the lungs get damaged and are larger than usual. This makes it harder for the lungs to clear mucus (sputum or phlegm).
People with bronchiectasis are more likely to get airway infections and the infections are likely to last longer. It also makes people prone to having a moist cough, sometimes with a wheeze, and feeling short of breath.
Often the cause of bronchiectasis is unknown, though it can be linked to lung infections, immune problems or mucus problems such as in cystic fibrosis.
Diagnosing bronchiectasis can include blood tests, sputum testing, breathing tests (spirometry), a chest X-ray, a CT scan of the chest and bronchoscopy.
Treating bronchiectasis includes chest physiotherapy and antibiotics.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Asthma Foundation – Bronchiectasis
Information about bronchiectasis, including what causes it, how it's diagnosed and how it's treated.
- Healthify He Puna Wairoa – Bronchiectasis in adults
Detailed information about bronchiectasis in adults.
- KidsHealth – Bronchiectasis
Information about bronchiectasis in children.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by community respiratory physician, Canterbury DHB. Last reviewed June 2021.
See also:
Review key: HIBRN-131321
