Abnormal and permanent dilationof the airways
caused by the destruction of muscular and elastic components.
caused by the destruction of muscular and elastic components.
Clinical Symptoms of
Bronchiectasis
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01
Chronic cough accompanied by persistent sputum.
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02
Foul-smelling sputum due to bacterial overgrowth.
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03
Blood-tinged cough or occasional hemoptysis.
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04
Shortness of breath or progressive dyspnea.
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05
Coarse crackles or rattling sounds during breathing.
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06
Cyanosis accompanied by unexplained weight loss.
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07
Clubbing of fingers caused by capillary proliferation.
Complications of Bronchiectasis
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Pneumonia
Recurrent lung infections caused by bacteria
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Empyema
Pus accumulation in the pleural cavity causes severe fever, dyspnea, and chest pain.
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Pneumothorax
Air trapped in the pleural space causes chest pain, requiring chest tube insertion in severe cases.
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Lung Abscess
Pus cavities formation triggers fever, fatigue, weight loss, and dyspnea, treated via sputum-guided therapy.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Bronchiectasis
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01 Diagnosishow to
- Suspected if presenting with chronic cough, thick sputum, intermittent hemoptysis, or wheezing.
- Chest X-rays and bronchography identify anatomy, while bronchoscopy detects bleeding and obstruction locations.
- CT imaging, pulmonary function tests (PFT), and paranasal sinus exams further support accurate diagnosis.
02 Treatmenthow to- Primary goals focus on facilitating smooth sputum clearance and treating underlying bacterial airway infections.
- Maintaining sufficient hydration aids sputum discharge, and immediate smoking cessation is highly required.
- Postural drainage, combined with gentle back cupping in a forward-leaning position, effectively clears retained mucus.
- Antibiotic therapies are promptly administered if yellow sputum changes and high fever indicate ongoing infection.
02