Bronchiectasis and breathlessness

[Aljm]

Hi,

I was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis 10 years ago aged 45 and whilst I have been relatively free of infections for several years and been relatively fit I am noticing persistent breathlessness when walking uphill now and need to stop and take a minute. I have also developed a dry cough. I am surprised this is happening as I am still as fit as I used to be but is this the next stage of bronchiectasis?

Also I am reading “The Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeown. Wondered if anyone has found any of his suggestions useful for bronchiectasis?

Thank you all - such a helpful forum.

[eleanordigby]

Hey! Others probably know more but I wouldn’t say it’s the next stage. As I understand it, bronchiectasis affects everyone differently. Tho I suppose it’s bound to change after 10 years. Why not tell your consultant. They can arrange tests to see if there’s a reason. Are you coughing up more? As you ask, I don’t think much of Patrick McKeown, he’s one of the people behind Buteyko, but that’s just me

[Kpacific]

Have you had a lung function test recently? Part of that test includes a DLCO score that shows amt of oxygen reaching the bloodstream from your lungs. It might give you a clue, as to what is going on.

Another possibility is one that I suffer from…acid reflux. I’ve developed GERD, since being diagnosed with bronchiectasis. When walking, it can sometimes give me the feeling that my upper chest is congested or that I can’t get enough air into my lungs. If I take antacid tablets and keep my acid reflux under control, generally, I don’t have these sensations.

Just some thoughts. Hope you find the cause of your uphill stress.🌄🏞

[Aljm in reply to Kpacific]

Thank you. Not seen any specialist for 2 years so will try and get a referral.

[Hidden]

hello Aljm. I have had bronch all of my life. When I developed symptoms similar to those that you describe it turned out to be my heart which had developed AF and cardiomyopathy. It took me two years to persuade the medics to look at my heart. Although it does not sound like a progression of bronch, it may be some other lung related development. You need to find out as soon as possible exactly what it is so that you can deal with it. It seems that you don't have a bronch specialist, which we all need. If there is some other lung development they will know how to deal with that also. So I suggest that you set about finding a bronch specialist and insist that your GP refer you. Also ask your GP to get your heart checked out.

[Aljm in reply to Hidden]

thanks you, very helpful.

[Lfcpremier]

Hi.How was your Bronchiectasis diagnosed? Did you have a CT scan?

Most with Bronchiectasis produce mucous,like me, which needs daily clearance as the lungs are damaged.

I would certainly seek expert opinion & further checks.

Good luck!

[Alberta56]

Welcome to the forum. I hope you can get your changed symptoms checked out, but we bronchs are all different, so we can't do more than suggest you see your doctor. I too find walking uphill a right pain- feel like I need a rollator, so I can have a sit down when I need it.

[Response]

Are you doing any clearnace techniques e.g. Active Cycle of breathing? or using an Acapella .

Perhaps it's time to talk to your consultant (or get a referal with one) for a new HRCT scan?

Or perhaps get the GP to first rule out other potential reasons - infection? etc

[Patk1]

do read up on controlled pursed lips breathing.it should help.