Pulmonary · Condition
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a condition in which the airways become permanently
widened and scarred, making it hard to clear mucus.
What is Bronchiectasis?
Bronchiectasis is a condition in which the airways become permanently widened and scarred, making it hard to clear mucus. Trapped mucus invites repeated infections, which cause further damage in a cycle we work to break. With airway-clearance techniques and prompt treatment of infections, most people keep symptoms well controlled.
Causes & risk factors
Prior infections
Severe pneumonia, whooping cough, or tuberculosis can scar the airways.
Immune conditions
A weakened immune system raises infection risk.
Underlying disease
Conditions such as COPD can contribute.
Recognize These in Yourself or
Someone You Love?
Symptoms
A daily cough with large amounts of mucus
Recurrent chest infections
Shortness of breath and wheezing
Fatigue
How we diagnose it
Diagnosis combines breathing tests with imaging, and sometimes a look inside the airways.
Treatment options
Care centers on clearing mucus, treating infections early, and protecting lung function.
Frequently asked questions
Is bronchiectasis the same as COPD?
They can look similar and sometimes overlap, but they are distinct conditions. Imaging helps tell them apart and guides treatment.
Will I always cough up mucus?
Daily airway clearance greatly reduces mucus and infections for most people, even if some cough remains.