Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory condition that causes irreversible widening and thickening of the bronchial tubes, resulting in difficulty breathing and frequent infections. It can be caused by a variety of factors including genetic disorders, infections, and autoimmune diseases. Symptoms can include coughing up large amounts of mucus, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as CT scans and pulmonary function tests. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications such as infections, and can include airway clearance techniques, antibiotics, bronchodilators, and pulmonary rehabilitation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged lung tissue. Long-term management of bronchiectasis may require a multidisciplinary team including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and infectious disease specialists.