This article provided courtesy of StatePoint Media.

Getting the right treatment for bronchiectasis—a chronic lung condition affecting an estimated 350,000 to 500,000 adults nationwide—is key to slowing its progression and preventing further airway damage.

The American Lung Association, with support from Boehringer Ingelheim, is raising awareness about the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Here’s what you should know:

Bronchiectasis is chronic

Bronchiectasis is a lifelong, progressive condition in which the airways (bronchi) become permanently widened and thickened from inflammation and infection. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Diagnosis is often delayed

Two of the hallmark symptoms—daily cough and daily mucus production—often mimic those of other lung conditions. Fatigue, chest pain and shortness of breath can further complicate diagnosis. Because bronchiectasis requires its own treatment plan, it’s important to advocate for yourself if your current treatment isn’t helping.

Disease management is critical

Respiratory infections can trigger airway inflammation and further lung damage. 

To help break this cycle, follow your treatment plan closely: take medications as prescribed, use airway-clearance techniques and take steps to reduce flare-up risk.

You can lower your risk of flare-ups

While you can’t control everything about your environment or health, you can reduce flare-ups by:

• Avoiding toxic fumes and smoke
• Steering clear of people with respiratory infections
• Staying up to date on vaccinations
• Drinking plenty of water to help thin mucus
• Following your treatment plan and maintaining a healthy lifestyle

Although about 40% of bronchiectasis cases have no known cause, the condition often develops after lung damage from another illness or obstruction. Triggers can include autoimmune disease, COPD, cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease, immune disorders, and recurring infections like pneumonia, tuberculosis, pertussis and fungal infections.

For more information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, visit Lung.org/Bronchiectasis

While there is no cure, working closely with your pulmonologist to manage bronchiectasis can help you breathe easier and live better.

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