Bronchiectasis

This is a disease of the bronchi (tubes) of the lungs in which, as a result of infection, the passages become blocked with thick secretions causing the walls to dilate and become weakened. This condition is more common in adults, although it may originate in childhood. The common, defining symptom is the frequent coughing up of foul, smelly secretions that are thick and green or yellow in color and may be blood-flecked. The person suffers from frequent respiratory infections and is often breathless and unwell.

In addition, the person may be abnormally tired and anemic. The initial damage to the bronchi may result from a number of different causes, including infections of the lungs such as pneumonia and chronic bronchitis, allergy (hay fever), inhalation of a foreign body and tuberculosis.

The secretions that accumulate lead to blockage and weakening of the bronchial walls, and accumulation of more material and secondary infections, which is bronchiectasis.

Preventive measures include a good diet, drinking plenty of fluids, avoidance of airborne pollutants and trying to avoid respiratory infections.

The main treatment is the practice of postural drainage to eliminate the accumulated secretions. The patient lies over the edge of the bed with the head hanging down so that the secretions pass into the trachea (windpipe) and can be coughed up. Also, surgery to remove a part of the lung (lobectomy) may be needed and antibiotics to fight infections. Inhalation of aromatic substances, such as creosote, may be used to eliminate the smell.

The person needs yearly immunization against influenza.