Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease that causes damage to the bronchial tubes (airways) in your lungs. Bronchiectasis is not as common as COPD or other chronic lung diseases, but it does difficulties breathing in those who have it.
What is bronchiectasis?
Bronchiectasis damages your bronchial tubes by causing them to grow wider and stiffer. This allows mucus and bacteria to build up in the airways and in your lungs.
Bronchiectasis frequently leads to other lung infections and shortness of breath. Without treatment, it can lead to complete respiratory failure and other severe conditions.
What causes bronchiectasis?
Bronchiectasis is considered an idiopathic disease, which means that its exact cause is not always known. Unlike COPD and many other lung diseases, bronchiectasis is not connected with smoking.
Some of the following are associated with causing bronchiectasis:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Dyskinesia
- Injury to the airways
- Lung infections, including COPD
What are the symptoms of bronchiectasis?
Bronchiectasis builds up slowly over time, so it can take a while for many of its symptoms to show. If you begin to notice any of the following symptoms, please seek medical assistance:
- Frequent coughing that produces mucus and occasionally blood
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Tightness of the chest
- Fatigue
How is bronchiectasis treated?
Like many other chronic lung conditions, bronchiectasis is not curable. However, there are treatment options to help you manage the symptoms of the disease and breathe easier.
Common treatments for bronchiectasis include the following:
- Bronchodilators – these help relax the airways to help you breathe
- Antibiotics
- Mucus thinners
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Oxygen therapy
Your exact treatment will depend on factors like how far your bronchiectasis has progressed and your age, medical history and fitness levels.
One treatment that may be helpful for you is Lung Restoration Treatment™ offered byLung Health Institute. This procedure uses your own blood cells to target inflammation caused by bronchiectasis. A sample of your blood is withdrawn and taken to a lab where it is separated into concentrated forms. These concentrated forms are then reintroduced into your body to help reduce inflammation and improve your ability to breathe more clearly.
Are you suffering from breathing difficulties caused by bronchiectasis or another chronic lung disease? Contact us today to speak with a patient coordinator about lung restoration therapy.
