Bronchiectasis (pronounced bron-kee-ek'-tas-is) is a condition of the airways in the lungs. These airways are tube-like structures that branch from the trachea into the right and left lungs. When a person has bronchiectasis the airways are permanently and abnormally widened (dilated) and/or thickened. Mucus can collect in the abnormal airways. The mucus is difficult to clear because of the damage to the normal ways the airways clear the mucus.
Bronchiectasis is caused by one or more infectious insults to the lungs. This can lead to episodes of infection and then, worsening bronchiectasis. These insults are more likely to occur if there is impaired drainage of your airways or a defect in your immune defenses.
Early diagnosis and treatment of bronchiectasis is very important.
