How is bronchiectasis diagnosed?
You should see your doctor if you develop a
persistent cough. While this may not be caused by bronchiectasis, it requires
further investigation.
If your doctor suspect you may have
bronchiectasis, they'll refer you to a specialist in treating lung conditions (Pulmonologist)
for further tests.
The diagnosis of bronchiectasis usually
involves a history and physical exam, with a history being a chronic daily
cough and sputum production. Sputum analysis, chest X-ray and high-resolution
CT of the chest (lungs) are tests usually ordered. In most cases, the
definitive diagnosis is made with the CT of the chest although occasionally a
chest X-ray is sufficient. These exams usually show the changes in the
bronchioles that are consistent with bronchiectasis.
Pulmonary function tests also may be
ordered to determine the patient's baseline lung function to help determine the
extent of lung tissue compromise.
What is the treatment bronchiectasis?
The damage caused to the lungs by
bronchiectasis is permanent, but treatment can help relieve your symptoms and
stop the damage getting worse.
Treatment protocols frequently include
keeping immunizations up-to-date, eliminating aggravating factors such as
cigarette smoke, alcohol and drugs, and encouraging good nutrition. Increasing
fluid intake to keep mucous less sticky is another treatment. Sometimes an
expectorant (to loosen the mucous) and mucous thinning medication can help
decrease symptoms.
The main treatments include:
Exercises and special devices to help you
clear mucus out of your lungs
Medication to help improve airflow within
the lungs
Antibiotics to treat any lung infections
that develop
Surgery. Patients with bronchiectasis that
is poorly controlled with antibiotics may require surgical therapy. Surgical
therapy (or in some individuals, bronchoscopy) can remove mucus plugging,
foreign bodies or tumors that exacerbate bronchiectasis. Excessive hemoptysis
may need to be treated surgically or by bronchial artery embolization. Some
patients may benefit from surgical removal of nonfunctional lung tissue.