Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition that can affect people of any age. It is characterized by abnormal widening (dilation) of the lower airways (bronchi), and often causes chronic cough, sputum production, breathlessness, and recurrent lung infections. Diagnosis is made through a careful clinical history and chest CT imaging. It is important to seek treatment for this condition with a specialist. Pulmonary experts with the Emory Bronchiectasis & NTM Program offer specialized care for bronchiectasis and related bacterial conditions, including nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM).
Bronchiectasis
Care for Bronchiectasis and Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Lung Disease
Why Choose Emory Healthcare?
Bronchiectasis can affect your quality of life. The Emory Bronchiectasis & NTM Program team offers advanced, comprehensive care for bronchiectasis and related infections.
Our experts are leaders in bronchiectasis research and education. Our program director, Colin Swenson, MD, co-authored the American Thoracic Society's Bronchiectasis Patient Education series and leads multiple clinical trials evaluating new treatments for bronchiectasis and related infections, including nontuberculous mycobacterial lung disease (NTM-LD). He also services on the steering committee for the COPD Foundation’s Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network initiative and is on the advisory committee for the national Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry.
When you seek care for bronchiectasis at Emory, you can expect:
- Access to clinical trials that are testing new therapies
- One-on-one counseling with a specialty pharmacist to discuss medication treatments
- Ongoing support for you and your family
- Hands-on training in airway clearance techniques (ACTs)
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About Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that results in damage to your lungs’ airways (bronchi). Your bronchi move air in and out of your lungs.
A thin layer of mucus lines healthy bronchi. If you have bronchiectasis, mucus can build up, trapping bacteria and causing inflammation in the airways. Over time, this can lead to widening of the bronchi and scarring of the lungs.
There are several known causes of bronchiectasis. The most common cause is a previous respiratory infection like:
- Pneumonia
- Tuberculosis
- Whooping cough
Other causes of bronchiectasis include:
- Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren’s syndrome
- Certain genetic conditions, including primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) and cystic fibrosis (CF)
- Certain inflammatory conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease
- Toxic inhalation (smoke, fumes)
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- Immunodeficiency disorders like HIV
- Bronchial obstruction (blockage in the bronchi)
Bronchiectasis Symptoms
Symptoms of bronchiectasis include:
- Cough, which may be productive of sputum (phlegm)
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Fever, chills or night sweats
- Wheezing
Diagnosing Bronchiectasis
If your doctor suspects bronchiectasis, they will talk with you about your history of lung conditions. They will also perform tests to check how well your lungs are working and to look for signs of an infection.
The Emory Healthcare Pulmonology team uses the following diagnostic tests for bronchiectasis:
- Comprehensive pulmonary function testing: A series of noninvasive breathing tests to see how well your lungs work.
- High-resolution imaging: Detailed pictures of your lungs using tools like a computed tomography (CT) scanner.
- Respiratory pathogen culture: A lab test to check sputum (coughed-up mucus or phlegm) for bacteria and fungi.
- Advanced bronchoscopy: An examination of the inside of the lungs using a thin tube called a bronchoscope.
Bronchiectasis Treatments
Bronchiectasis treatment often involves medications and devices to help clear your bronchi of mucus. Occasionally, antibiotics are prescribed to fight infections. Your provider may also prescribe medications to target inflammation within the bronchi. You may also benefit from special breathing therapy called pulmonary rehabilitation.
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Make an Appointment with Emory Pulmonology Services
Create a MyChart account to schedule online or call 404-778-3261 to schedule an appointment.
Make an Appointment with Emory Pulmonology Services
Create a MyChart account to schedule online or call 404-778-3261 to schedule an appointment.