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Bronchiectasis

Permanent dilation of the bronchi causes chronic infection and abundant productive cough.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Bronchiectasis?

Bronchiectasis is a chronic disease characterized by permanent dilation and deformation of the bronchial walls due to recurrent or severe lung infections, obstruction, or congenital causes.

Cystic fibrosis, immunodeficiency, tuberculosis, foreign body aspiration, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) are among the leading causes of bronchiectasis. Damage to the bronchial walls predisposes to infection; this vicious cycle progresses the disease.

High-resolution CT (HRCT) is the gold standard for diagnosis. The main goals of treatment are to reduce mucus accumulation, control infections, and prevent exacerbations.

Symptoms

Daily abundant, purulent sputum-producing cough
Blood in sputum (hemoptysis)
Shortness of breath
Wheezing breathing
Recurrent lung infections
Fatigue and weight loss

Risk Factors

Cystic fibrosis and immunodeficiency
Past severe pneumonia or tuberculosis
Foreign body aspiration
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Primary ciliary dyskinesia

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Pulmonology consultation when daily productive cough begins
  • When blood is seen in sputum
  • During exacerbation (darkening of sputum color, fever)
  • For pulmonary function test and HRCT

Treatment Methods

01
Daily postural drainage and airway physiotherapy
02
Inhaler hypertonic saline and mucolytics
03
Antibiotic therapy (culture-directed) during exacerbations
04
Long-term low-dose azithromycin (in recurrent exacerbations)
05
Treatment of the underlying cause (immunodeficiency, ABPA)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Related Health Topics

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Asthma

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Asthma is characterized by wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath attacks; with proper treatment it can be kept under control.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

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COPD is an irreversible lung disease characterized by shortness of breath and chronic cough; quitting smoking slows its progression.

Pneumonia

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Tuberculosis (TB)

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Pleural Effusion

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Pneumothorax

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Pneumothorax is the presence of air in the pleural space resulting in partial or complete lung collapse, classified as spontaneous (primary/secondary), traumatic, or iatrogenic, with tension pneumothorax representing a life-threatening emergency.

Bronchitis (Acute and Chronic)

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Acute bronchitis is mostly viral and resolves spontaneously, while chronic bronchitis is a smoking-related component of COPD.

Bronchiectasis

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Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by permanent, abnormal dilation of bronchi with associated destruction of muscular and elastic components of airway walls, resulting in impaired mucociliary clearance and recurrent infection.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.