Bronchiectasis Health Article

Treatment

Treatment is aimed at controlling infections and bronchial secretions, relieving airway obstruction, and preventing complications.

Regular, daily drainage to remove bronchial secretions is a routine part of treatment. A respiratory therapist can teach postural drainage and effective coughing exercises to patients and their families.

Antibiotics, bronchodilators, and expectorants are often prescribed for infections. Childhood vaccinations and a yearly influenza vaccine help reduce the chance of some infections. Avoiding upper respiratory infections, smoking, and pollution may lessen the susceptibility to infection.

Surgical lung resection may be indicated for those who fail to respond to therapy or for massive bleeding.

Expectations (prognosis)

With treatment, most people can lead normal lives without major disability.

Complications

• Cor pulmonale
• Recurrent pneumonia
• Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
• Low oxygen levels (if severe)

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if:

• Symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment
• There is a change in color or amount of sputum, or bloody sputum
• Chest pain or shortness of breath increases

Prevention

The risk may be reduced if lung infections are promptly treated.