Respiratory Physio Hub: Bronchiectasis

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How the hospital supports recovery

We have added two sections below that we hope you will find helpful to support your rehabilitation. The first section provides some of our approved and recommended websites that help you to explore the topic further. Read our guidance about what the site link contains to decide if this will be helpful to you. If it is then, please click on the link. Remember it will open in a new tab on your web browser, so you can toggle between these advisory sites and our main web page.

The other section is a series of frequently asked questions that people often raise with us about their rehabilitation. Click on the question to show the answer.

Bronchiectasis is thought to be uncommon. It’s estimated around 1 in every 100 adults in the UK have the condition. It can affect anyone at any age, but symptoms do not usually develop until middle age. Living with bronchiectasis can be stressful and frustrating, but most people with the condition have a normal life expectancy.

A good starting point to help your recovery in this area

PBDP logo

Physio for Breathing Pattern Disorder

Breathing is essential to life and occurs naturally with very little or no thought. There are many reasons why our breathing can lose its natural rhythm. Access the website below for more information.

Access website
Asthama+lung UK logo

Asthama+Lung UK

Improve your ability to handle breathlessness and connect with a supportive community of individuals who can relate to and empathise with your experiences.

Access website
NHS logo

NHS

Respiratory disease affect 1 in 5 people in the UK. It is an NHs priority and this link provides an overview of the disease and the various plans the NHS has for tackling the challenges these diseases pose.

Access website

 Answering some of your questions about Bronchiectasis

What is the outlook for someone diagnosed with bronchiectasis?

Once a diagnosis of bronchiectasis has been confirmed, the outlook for most people with bronchiectasis is good. Prompt treatment with antibiotics when an infection occurs (or with regular antibiotics if needed) can reduce further damage and help to keep you well. However, in some people, symptoms will gradually get worse over time as more of the airways become damaged. More severe disease results in daily symptoms, reduced lung function and a reduced life expectancy.

Can I travel abroad on holiday with with bronchiectasis?

With proper preparation you should still be able to travel and enjoy going on holiday. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date and speak to your doctor in advance about taking a supply of antibiotics with you in case you get a chest infection. You should also make sure you have adequate insurance cover.

Why do I have a problem with urine leakage when I cough?

Urinary incontinence or leakage of urine occurs in up to half of all women with bronchiectasis. When you cough, the pressure on your bladder increases suddenly. For many people this is not a problem, but for some people, the combination of a persistent severe cough and weak bladder muscles can mean that urine leaks out from the bladder. Although this can be embarrassing to talk about, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or other member of your healthcare team, as there are a number of things that can help

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