Bronchiectasis in Adults

Bronchiectasis in Adults

Arizona Center for Chest Diseases reviews the treatments of bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis, not to be confused with bronchitis, is a condition of chronic cough and daily mucus production. These symptoms are a result of injury and chronic inflammation of segments of the bronchial tree. The inflamed bronchi become dilated and loose the ability to effectively clear secretions or mucous from the airway. The retained mucous perpetuates the inflammation and becomes a source of chronic bacterial growth and infection. Bronchiectasis may result from prior infections, genetic deficiencies, immune system deficiencies, rheumatologic conditions, and recurrent aspiration to name a few. Those who develop bronchiectasis experience chronic pulmonary symptoms which intermittently “flare”, requiring urgent medical treatment.

Treating the underlying disease

Treatment of bronchiectasis focuses on management of chronic mucous production and limiting future progression of disease.  Progression is limited by the aggressive control of mucus and optimizing airway clearance of secretions as much as possible.  Medications to thin or reduce secretions, improve secretion clearance, and respiratory therapy to facilitate mobilization of secretions are used to optimize control of bronchiectasis.

Disorders associated with bronchiectasis:

1. Nontuberculous mycobacterial infection, treated with specific regimens of antibiotics.
2. Immunoglobulin deficiencies, treated with immunoglobulin replacement.
3. Recurrent aspiration due to swallowing difficulties or severe gastroesophageal reflux.
4. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, associated with asthma, treated through optimal management of underlying asthma.
5. Cystic Fibrosis, treated at specialized CF centers.

Arizona Center for Chest Diseases partners with their patients to manage chronic symptoms, treat underlying disorders that lead to symptoms, and restore quality of life as much as medically possible.  If you are having trouble clearing mucus or have been diagnosed with any of the above conditions visit Arizona Center for Chest Diseases today to meet with our well qualified physicians.