What is Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a lung ailment in which the bronchial tubes of the lungs become chronically swollen, dilated, and damaged. As a result of that, airways are compressed which can lead to bacteria and mucus developing in your lungs.

People with bronchiectasis frequently experience infections and airway obstructions. Although there is no permanent cure for bronchiectasis, it can be managed. Flare-ups, on the other hand, must be quickly addressed to maintain ideal oxygen flow throughout the body and prevent severe lung damage.

Types of Bronchiectasis

There are three forms of bronchiectasis that have been identified by researchers, one of such research that you can refer to for in depth learning mMechanisms and Clues of Associated Common and Uncommon Diseases by Radiological society of North america.The anatomical microscopic appearance of bronchiectasis distinguishes them into multiple types.

Cylindrical Bronchiectasis:-

This is the mildest form of bronchiectasis, cylindrical bronchiectasis demonstrates the loss of typical airway tapering.

Saccular or varicose bronchiectasis:-

In saccular or varicose bronchiectasis the airway wall is further distorted, and the individual lung produces more mucus and sputum; portions of the bronchi may appear to be beaded.

Cystic Bronchiectasis:-

Cystic bronchiectasis is the most severe and uncommon type of bronchiectasis.In this type of bronchiectasis, emphysema features larger air holes and a honeycombed look on CT scans, as well as thicker walls than emphysema blebs. Some people develop multiple types of bacteria in their lungs.

Risk Factors that enhance Bronchiectasis

In this section, we will take a look at certain factors that enhance your chances of getting bronchiectasis that including:

Tobacco smoke:- People who smoke or live with a smoker are more likely to develop both acute and chronic bronchitis. Quitting smoking is also good for your heart. Here are some tips to keep your heart healthy.

Weak Immunity:-This could be another reason causing acute sickness, such as a cold, or by a persistent ailment that weakens your immune system. Older people, newborns, and small children are more vulnerable to infection.

Workplace irritating exposure. People are more likely to get bronchitis if you work with specific lung irritants, such as grains, textiles, or if you are exposed to chemical fumes consistently for a long period of time.

Reflux of the stomach. Frequent bouts of severe heartburn might irritate your throat and make you more susceptible to developing bronchitis.

Signs and symptoms:-

Bronchiectasis symptoms develop over months, and in some exceptional cases, years. Some common signs and symptoms of bronchiectasis are as follows:

Frequent coughing with a lot of mucus.
Blood Coughing.
Odd chest noises or whistling when inhaling.
Sudden weight loss
Experiencing frequent chest pain.
Nails getting clubbed.
Fever or chills.
Sweating during Night.
Increased shortness of breath.

Diagnosis of Bronchiectasis

During the initial few days of illness, it can be difficult to tell the difference between bronchiectasis and a typical cold. To determine that, your doctor will use the physical exam by using a stethoscope to listen intently to your lungs while you breathe.

In some instances, your doctor may also advise you to have the following tests:

Chest X-ray

A chest X-ray can assist to evaluate whether you have pneumonia or another ailment that could be causing you cough. This is especially crucial if you have ever been or are presently a smoker.

Sputum examinations

Sputum is the mucus that comes up from your lungs when you cough. Its sample can be used to evaluate whether you have any illnesses for which antibiotics could be administered. Sputum can also be checked for allergy symptoms.

Pulmonary function testing

During a pulmonary function test, you blow into a spirometer, which evaluates how much air your lungs can contain and how rapidly you can expel it. This examination aims to look for symptoms of asthma or emphysema.

CT Scan

A chest computed tomography scan(chest CT scan), is the most common bronchiectasis test.It is very significant because sometimes a chest X-ray does not provide adequate detail. CT scan generates comprehensive images of your trachea and other key chest organs.A chest CT scan can be used to detect the extent and specific location of lung injury. Doctors work to identify the aetiology of bronchiectasis and accordingly develop a treatment plan.

Bronchiectasis is incurable, although treatment is critical to prevent the further growth of infection. It is also critical to minimize any future airway blockages and to limit lung damage.

Ways of Preventing Bronchiectasis

Rightly said by someone, prevention is always better than cure. Reduce your risks of having chronic bronchitis by adopting the following:

Maintain a safe distance from cigarettes and passive smoking.

Get the flu vaccine since the flu virus can cause bronchitis.

Check to see if you’re up to date on your pertussis vaccine doses.

Clean your hands regularly.

Wearing a mask when exposed to substances that cause difficulty breathing, such as paint fumes or pollution can really help.

Why Choose CKS Hospital for Bronchiectasis Treatment?

Department of pulmonology at CKS Hospitals in Jaipur, Rajasthan, offers patients a wide array of services and treatment for Bronchiectasis. At CKS Hospital we provide world-class treatment with high-end care, a personalized approach, and state of art healthcare facilities. Our experienced and highly skilled team of doctors with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies allows us to stand out as one of India’s best pulmonology hospitals. We aim to render the best possible and suitable Bronchiectasis treatments at affordable costs. In case of any assistance, schedule an appointment with us.