Symptoms:
Chronic cough with sputum. He may cough up blood or bloodstained sputum and have inflammation of the lungs. In advanced cases, there may be shortness of breath when any exertion is made.

Cause:
Bronchiectasis is permanent dilation and infection of one or more bronchi.

Causes can include obstructions in the bronchi, lung infections, breathing in of foreign substances or vomitus, enlarged lymph nodes, pressure tumors, or dilated blood vessels.

Treatment:
• Determine to cough slowly by first breathing slowly and deeply, then hold the breath for several seconds. Then give two short, forceful coughs with the mouth open. The first loosens the phlegm; the second brings it up. Hold the breath again and then breathe in slowly, to avoid non-productive coughing.

• Do not use cough medicines and antihistamines. They dry up the secretions, making them even harder to expel.

• Drink lots of fluids, so the phlegm will be thinner and looser.

• Use a cool-air vaporizer each night. Try to maintain 30-50% humidity in the house during the day.

• Do not wear belts; the abdomen should be free to breathe and cough properly.

• In cold weather, wear a scarf or mask over the mouth and nose, to warm the air.