Bronchiectasis is the medical term that refers to widening or dilation of the airways (bronchi) due to damage associated with inflammation. The dilation is a result of loss of elasticity of the damaged airways.
Signs and symptoms of bronchiectasis can vary in severity and can include
- shortness of breath,
- wheezing,
- coughing up blood or blood-stained phlegm,
- chest pain, or
- joint pain.
Other associated signs and symptoms can include
- clubbing of the fingertips,
- weight loss,
- fatigue, and
- coughing up large amounts of phlegm.
Causes of Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis can be caused by genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis, immotile cilia syndrome, or alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency as well as acquired factors, including infections. Depending upon the exact cause, bronchiectasis can develop in infants, children, or adults.
Other bronchiectasis symptoms and signs
- Chest Pain
- Clubbing of the Fingertips
- Coughing Up Blood or Blood-Stained Phlegm
- Coughing Up Large Amounts of Phlegm
- Fatigue
- Joint Pain
- Shortness of Breath
- Weight Loss
- Wheezing
Main Article on Bronchiectasis Symptoms and Signs
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