How to prevent bronchiectasis?
The risk of bronchiectasis may be reduced if lung infections are promptly treated. Early identification and treatment of conditions that tend to cause bronchiectasis may prevent the development of bronchiectasis or reduce its severity. Because the damage to the airways is thought to occur as a result of childhood infections, any prevention needs to take place in
childhood. Children should be vaccinated against measles and whooping cough to prevent this damage to airways early in childhood. Childhood immunizations against measles and whooping cough, appropriate use of antibiotics, and improved living conditions and nutrition have significantly reduced the number of people who develop bronchiectasis. A cough (particularly a moist cough) that persists in a child, is a reason to take the child to the doctor.
Prompt removal of an inhaled foreign body can prevent bronchiectasis. (Thus, if any friend or family member is thought to have inhaled something they should see their doctor immediately). Inhalation of foreign objects into the airways by children may be prevented by carefully watching what they put in their mouth. Avoiding toxic fumes, gases, smoke, and injurious dusts also helps prevent bronchiectasis or reduce its severity. Additionally, avoiding oversedation from drugs or alcohol and seeking medical care for neurologic symptoms (such as impaired consciousness) or gastrointestinal symptoms (such as difficulty in swallowing and regurgitation or coughing after eating) may help to prevent aspiration. Also, drops of mineral oil or other oils should never be placed in the mouth or nose because they can be inhaled into the lungs. |
