Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a lung condition in which the airways of the lungs get bigger and often get infected. It occurs mainly in people who have diseases that affect different parts of the body, such as cystic fibrosis, although it may occur after a severe infection, such as pneumonia.

Symptoms of bronchiectasis differ from person to person. A common symptom is a cough that brings up mucus (sputum).

Bronchiectasis is generally treated with antibiotics, medicines that relax the airways (bronchodilators), and medicines that make it easier to cough up mucus (expectorants).

Credits

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: June 15, 2011
Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Susanna McColley, MD - Pediatric Pulmonology

© 1995-, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.