October 17, 2024 Authors : Ana Alfaiate and Cristina Braço Forte Bronchiectasis is a condition where bronchi irreversible dilate and pouches are formed . Mucus / sputum is not eliminated, and its accumulation is favored, there is and increased the risk of lung infections and quality of life can be significantly affected. Causes and symptoms of bronchiectasis Although bronchiectasis can have several causes, the main ones are also lung infections , for example tuberculosis, measles or whooping cough. Other possible causes are: Asthma worsened by an allergic reaction to Aspergillus fungi; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis; Genetic diseases, such as alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency and primary ciliary dyskinesia. Sometimes it is not possible to identify the cause of bronchiectasis. When its cause is unknown, bronchiectasis is called idiopathic . The symptoms that most frequently occur when there is bronchiectasis are: Recurrent cough with sputum; Dyspnea (difficulty breathing); Wheezing; Hemoptysis (blood through the mouth); Asthenia (general weakness) Some symptoms, signs and other particularities reflect more severe bronchiectasis, which also has a greater impact on daily activities. Among these are, for example: Shortness of breath; Occurrence of 3 or more respiratory infections per year (repeat infections); Results of sputum analyzes that repeatedly reveal the presence of microorganisms; Evidence on tomography of several areas of the same lung or both lungs being affected; Need for hospital admission; Non explained weight loss; Lower lung capacity in respiratory function tests. The severity of bronchiectasis tends to increase with age because the lungs become smaller and the immune system response is less effective. Diagnosis The diagnosis of bronchiectasis is based on: History reported by the patient and answers to doctor questions; Symptoms presented; Results of the patient's physical examination , especially regarding the respiratory system; Results of complementary diagnostic tests that are prescribed. Depending on the suspicion, the doctor may prescribe several complementary diagnostic tests aimed at: Confirm the presence of bronchiectasis; Identify the cause of the problem; Guide the treatment to be carried out. The most frequently prescribed tests are: Blood tests, including parameters related to the functioning of the immune system; Search and identification of microorganisms in sputum, for example mycobacteria that cause tuberculosis or other bacteria and fungi; Computed tomography of the chest; Respiratory function tests to assess lung capacity. Bronchiectasis treatment Bronchiectasis is irreversible, that is, it cannot be cured. However, with appropriate treatment, it is possible to control symptoms and stabilize the disease . Thus, the objective of bronchiectasis treatment is: Prevent respiratory infections; Relieve symptoms; Improve quality of life; Prevent worsening; Treat the cause, whenever possible. Depending on the specific situation, treatment may include medications, supportive treatments and healthy lifestyle habits . Medicines Medications may include, for example: Sputum fluidizers, to make it easier to eliminate; Antibiotics, when necessary to treat infections and which can be administered in tablets, nebulizers or injections. In some cases, preventive antibiotics are also used; Medicines intended to facilitate breathing and reduce inflammation of the lungs administered through inhalers; Vaccination against respiratory microorganisms to prevent infections. Supportive treatments These may include: Administration of oxygen , when levels are lower than desirable and in specific circumstances such as air travel; Respiratory physiotherapy , to help eliminate sputum and strengthen respiratory muscles. Healthy habits Not smoking, drinking adequate water and exercising are the main healthy habits to be followed by those with bronchiectasis. Meet the pulmonology clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
