Bronchiectasis is a condition characterized by abnormal dilation of the large airways called bronchi because of destruction of its walls which is made up of muscular and elastic components. Destruction and inflammation leads to collapsible airways causing obstruction to airflow and impairment in the clearance of bronchial secretions. Accumulation of secretions causes colonization of infecting organisms which leads to production of foul-smelling sputum and more bronchial damage. This condition can be congenital or acquired. The congenital type is usually seen in the young population. This commonly results from problems in the normal development of the bronchial tree. The acquired type is seen in older children and in the adult population. It usually results from severe infections of the respiratory tract, airway obstruction by a foreign body or tumor, or a defect in host defense. Symptoms include cough productive of foul-smelling sputum, difficulty of breathing, fatigue, wheezing, coughing out blood because of bleeding of the bronchial artery, weight loss, bluish skin discoloration or cyanosis. For treatment, antibiotics are given to control the infection. In addition to that, expectorants are added to help expel the brochial secretions and bronchodilators to help relieve the airway obstruction. Avoiding smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke, avoiding air pollution, good nutrition, and childhood immunizations are some of the preventive measures for this condition. |
