Bronchiectasis is the permanent widening and structural damage of the bronchi, with continuous accumulation of mucus inside them. It is rare, but because its progression can largely be halted when caught early, a productive cough lasting for months must always be investigated.

Symptoms

  • A cough with abundant mucus lasting weeks to months
  • Frequently recurring lung infections
  • Tiring quickly with exercise
  • In advanced cases, failure to gain weight and clubbing of the fingertips

Causes

  • Severe or belatedly treated lung infections (measles, whooping cough, severe pneumonia)
  • Unrecognized foreign body aspiration
  • Immune deficiencies, cystic fibrosis, and ciliary function disorders

Diagnosis and Treatment

A chest CT scan is essential for diagnosis; tests targeting the underlying cause (sweat test, immune evaluation) are performed. The pillars of treatment are: clearing mucus through respiratory physiotherapy, appropriate antibiotics during flare-ups, completing all vaccinations, and strictly avoiding tobacco smoke.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent bronchiectasis are timely whooping cough and measles vaccinations, early treatment of pneumonia, and never neglecting a prolonged cough.

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Related articles: Productive cough · Pneumonia · Vaccination schedule

This article is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for diagnosis and treatment. For any concerns about your child's health, be sure to consult a specialist in pediatric health and diseases.

Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş — Specialist in Pediatric Health and Diseases, Gaziantep