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Bronchiectasis is a condition characterized by
abnormal dilation of the large airways called bronchi
because of destruction of its walls which is made up of
muscular and elastic components. Destruction and
inflammation leads to collapsible airways causing
obstruction to airflow and impairment in the clearance
of bronchial secretions. Accumulation of secretions
causes colonization of infecting organisms which leads
to production of foul-smelling sputum and more bronchial
damage.
This condition can be congenital or acquired. The congenital type is
usually seen in the young population. This commonly results from problems in
the normal development of the bronchial tree.
The acquired type is seen in older children and in the adult population.
It usually results from severe infections of the respiratory tract, airway
obstruction by a foreign body or tumor, or a defect in host defense.
Symptoms include cough productive of foul-smelling sputum, difficulty of
breathing, fatigue, wheezing, coughing out blood because of bleeding of the
bronchial artery, weight loss, bluish skin discoloration or cyanosis.
For treatment, antibiotics are given to control the infection. In
addition to that, expectorants are added to help expel the brochial
secretions and bronchodilators to help relieve the airway obstruction.
Avoiding smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke, avoiding air
pollution, good nutrition, and childhood immunizations are some of the
preventive measures for this condition.
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