What's the treatment for bronchiectasis?
Treatment of bronchiectasis is directed against infections, secretions, airway obstruction, and complications (eg, hemoptysis, hypoxemia, respiratory failure, cor pulmonale). Regular, daily drainage to remove bronchial secretions is a routine part of treatment. A respiratory therapist can teach postural drainage and effective coughing exercises to patients and
their families.
Infections are treated with antibiotics, bronchodilators, and physical therapy to promote drainage of secretions. Sometimes antibiotics are prescribed for a long period to prevent recurring infections, especially in people who have cystic fibrosis. For inflammation and the buildup of mucus, anti-inflammatory drugs such as inhaled corticosteroids and drugs that thin the pus and mucus (mucolytics) may also be given, although the effectiveness of mucolytics is uncertain. Childhood vaccinations and a yearly influenza vaccine help reduce the chance of some infections. Avoiding upper respiratory infections, smoking, and pollution may lessen the susceptibility to infection.
Surgical lung resection may be indicated for those who fail to respond to therapy or for massive bleeding. When a particular area of the lung is constantly and severely infected, surgery may be needed to remove it. When bleeding occurs from irritated bronchial tubes and overgrown bronchial blood vessels, surgery may be required either to remove an area of the bronchial tube, or to inject the bleeding blood vessel with a material to stop the bleeding. |
