Bronchiectasis in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by permanent and abnormal widening of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. This dilation occurs due to damage to the walls of the airways, often resulting from recurrent infections or inflammation. As a consequence, the affected airways lose their ability to clear mucus effectively, leading to mucus accumulation, bacterial colonization, and frequent respiratory infections.

Patients with bronchiectasis typically experience persistent cough, often with copious sputum production, breathlessness, and recurrent chest infections. The severity of symptoms can vary, but the condition is generally progressive and can significantly impact quality of life. While bronchiectasis can affect people of all ages, it is more common in older adults and those with underlying respiratory conditions.