What is it?
Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disorder characterized by damages to the airways which results to permanent widening. It is often caused by long-term infections, certain diseases like cystic fibrosis, and autoimmune disorders.
What are the symptoms?
Bronchiectasis presents as the following:
- Chronic cough with sputum production.
- Coughing of blood.
- Tiredness.
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
- Recurrent chest infections.
What to expect?
If you are diagnosed with bronchiectasis you can consider discussing the following subjects with your doctor after the initial treatment:
- Was there an underlying cause found for the bronchiectasis?
- Quitting smoking is an important part in the management of bronchiectasis. Are you willing to stop smoking? Is your doctor able to support you with this?