Causes of bronchiectasis include genetic disease, issues with the immune system, or multiple previous lung infections. Repeated inflammation or infection makes the airways widen abnormally while their walls thicken. Mucus then collects in the airways, providing a perfect environment for infection.

A person with bronchiectasis cannot clear mucus or phlegm out of their airways. This creates a chronic cycle of lung infections and the symptoms get worse over time.

If you have bronchiectasis, you may have:

• Chronic cough
• Trouble breathing
• Yellow-green mucus
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

Diagnosing Bronchiectasis

The specialists at Memorial Healthcare System use leading tools to diagnose this complicated condition:

• Blood tests: These help determine whether you have an underlying condition that is causing bronchiectasis.
• X-ray and CT scans: Detailed images of your chest and lungs can pinpoint the location of widened or thickened airways, and maybe help determine its cause.
• Lung function tests: The doctor will listen to your lungs and administer breathing tests to determine how well your lungs are working.
• Sputum (phlegm and mucus) cultures: These test the phlegm and mucus from your lungs. They identify specific germs that may be causing infection and determine the most effective antibiotic treatments.
• Bronchoscopy: In some cases, the doctor may need to place a long tube into your airways. This test can find blockages, identify the source of infection and retrieve mucus for testing.

Treatment for Bronchiectasis

Managing bronchiectasis requires a long-term relationship with your pulmonologist. You will need continued follow-up appointments to address your changing symptoms and needs.

We use a combination of proven methods to prevent and treat infections, break up mucus, and manage symptoms. Used together, they will help you breathe and function better. Your treatment may include:

• Antibiotics: Oral and sometimes intravenous (delivered through a vein) antibiotics help fight infections.
• Medications to thin mucus: These may be prescribed to help you clear mucus from the airways. They are usually delivered via a nebulizer machine, which turns the liquid into a breathable mist.
• Chest physical therapy: A respiratory therapist will use a particular “clapping” technique on your chest to help loosen mucus.
• Pulmonary hygiene: This method, also referred to as “pulmonary toilet,” involves daily exercises to help you clear the airways of mucus.
• Medical devices to break up and clear mucus: A hand-held device that pushes air pressure through the mouth can break up excess mucus in the airways. Your doctor also may prescribe a wearable vest that uses pulsations to break up mucus.
• Oxygen supplementation: Some patients with pulmonary hypertension need extra oxygen. Your doctor will teach you how to use an oxygen tank, so oxygen flows through tubes that rest inside your nostrils.