Treatment and Prevention
Cough suppressants won't help bronchiectasis and can make it worse.
If the bronchi contain large amounts of mucus, they may have to be drained several
times a day (postural drainage). Infections can be treated with antibiotics.
Your doctor may also prescribe mucolytic medications that thin mucus and pus,
as well as anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids. If the blood
oxygen level is low because of blocked airways, oxygen therapy can help prevent
the development of heart disease related to lung problems. If there is wheezing
or shortness of breath, bronchodilator medications can help. Surgery may be
an option for people who have repeated infections or who cough up a lot of blood.
Surgeons may remove the affected part of your lung, but will only do so if the
bronchiectasis is confined to one lung.
Effective prevention involves tackling the many causes behind bronchiectasis.
Vaccinations for measles, whooping cough, flu, and pneumonia all help reduce
its development, incidence and spread. The early use of antibiotics during infections
like tuberculosis and pneumonia may prevent bronchiectasis and reduce its severity.
Taking immunoglobulin for immunoglobulin deficiency syndrome will have a similar
effect. Using anti-inflammatory medications may prevent bronchial damage. Always
avoid smoking or inhaling fumes, gases, and harmful dusts.