Bronchiectasis is a lung disease involving the bronchial tubes. This are the passages that connect the large airway or trachea, to the alveoli, where gases are exchanged. In this condition, the bronchial tubes become chronically blocked and accumulate thick secretions. Often, this blockage leads to the development of secondary infections. These secondary infections are usually not contagious, unless associated with tuberculosis.
Causes of Bronchiectasis
The small bronchial tubes may become damaged over many years. Damage is a result of: cigarette smoking, repeated lung infections (pneumonia), chronic bronchitis, allergies, smoke or dust, inhalation of a foreign object, tuberculosis, lung cancer or lung abscess, fungus infection and cystic fibrosis.
Signs and Symptoms of Bronchiectasis
Symptoms of people who have bronchiectasis include frequent cough with bad-smelling, green or yellow sputum. The sputum may contain blood. Not uncommonly, they complain of chronic bad breath. Repeated lung infections are common and there is shortness of breath. Fatigue, malaise and a general ill feeling of health occurs. Frequently, there is associated anemia with all its symptoms.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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