Bronchiectasis – a long-term condition affecting the airways

An elderly man sits on the sofa, coughing heavily and holding his hand in front of his chest

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:

Asthma + Lung UK https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/bronchiectasis/what-is-it

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.