Bronchiectasis –
a long-term condition affecting the airways

Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a long-term condition affecting the airways. The airways become widened and inflamed, developing pockets which trap mucus. This mucus can become very difficult to cough up and can act as a breeding ground in which bugs can grow, sometimes leading to a chest infection. The condition can be treated but cannot be cured.

Further information can be obtained from:

• The British Lung Foundation https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/bronchiectasis/what-is-it
• Living your life with bronchiectasis http://bronchiectasis.azurewebsites.net/

Bronchiectasis is sometimes called non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. People who have cystic fibrosis can have lung symptoms similar to those of bronchiectasis, but the treatments and outlook are different.