Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a long-term condition that affects the airways in your lungs. This information covers the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of bronchiectasis. We also have advice about managing symptoms and living well with bronchiectasis. 

Bronchiectasis

This information is for people living with bronchiectasis. It might also be useful for friends, families and carers, along with our advice and support for people who are caring for somebody with a lung condition. 

Man coughing

What is bronchiectasis?

Bronchiectasis is a condition that affects the airways in your lungs. We explain what bronchiectasis is, including how common it is and what causes it.
woman coughing

What are the signs and symptoms of bronchiectasis?

This page covers the symptoms of bronchiectasis and when you should get help.
A woman talking to a healthcare professional

How is bronchiectasis diagnosed?

Find out how bronchiectasis is diagnosed, including what tests you might need and how we can support you along the way.
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How is bronchiectasis treated?

Treatment for bronchiectasis can stop your condition from getting worse, prevent flare-ups (exacerbations) and control your symptoms.
A woman doing breathing exercises

Managing bronchiectasis

Find out how you can manage bronchiectasis. Our advice can support you to manage your symptoms, stay healthy and live well with your condition.
A woman clutching her chest

Bronchiectasis flare-ups (exacerbations)

A bronchiectasis flare-up is when your symptoms get worse. Here, we cover the symptoms of a bronchiectasis flare-up and what to do if you’re having a flare-up.
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Bronchiectasis in children

Bronchiectasis is a lung condition that affects the airways in your child’s lungs. We cover what bronchiectasis causes, diagnosis, treatment and support.

Bronchiectasis resources

We also have resources to help you manage your bronchiectasis. 

A paper bronchiectasis self-management plan leaflet

Your bronchiectasis self-management plan

Managing your bronchiectasis can help give you control of your condition and prevent flare-ups (exacerbations). Find out how a self-management plan can help.

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Your bronchiectasis patient passport

Your bronchiectasis Patient Passport is a best care checklist that can help you find out whether you’re receiving the right care for your bronchiectasis and what to do if you’re not.

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Living with bronchiectasis booklet

A booklet for people with bronchiectasis, their families, friends and carers. It explains what bronchiectasis is, its symptoms, causes and treatment. 

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Groups + support

Explore our diverse range of online and in-person groups and activities. Connect with our supportive community of people affected by a lung condition.

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Bronchiectasis Research Community

Supporting researchers and people with bronchiectasis to work together to develop new and better treatments and technologies.

Did you find this information useful?

We use your comments to improve our information. We cannot reply to comments left on this form. If you have health concerns or need clinical advice, call our helpline on 0300 222 5800 between 9am and 5pm on a weekday or email them.

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