THE FOUNDATIONThe New Zealand Bronchiectasis Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting those that live with Bronchiectasis, supporting those that care for people with Bronchiectasis, and raising awareness of and conducting research into the rare disease.
The Foundation works closely with the community, its Trustees, Medical Advisory Group, and researchers to ensure that the Foundation delivers high quality services and research. Our work is funded through private donations and research funds. WHAT IS BRONCHIECTASIS?Bronchiectasis is a condition where the breathing tubes in the lungs become scarred and permanently distorted. Extra mucus is produced in these damaged airways which are then easily infected. Over time and after lots of infections the airways’ ability to clear out mucus and to transport oxygen is reduced. This can lead to worsened lung scarring and other health problems. Bronchiectasis is usually caused by a severe chest infection needing hospital admission often at a young age, or by repeated more mild chest infections in the community.
Bronchiectasis is not contagious. In many cases it is preventable. Recently in children who were diagnosed early and got on to treatment, some of the disease has been reversible. The main symptom is a ‘wet cough’ which produces a lot of sputum or phlegm. While older children and adults can cough this up, in younger children this sounds like wet, rattley, mucusy cough. If you or your child has coughed every day for more than six weeks or if your child has had three or more stays in hospital with chest problems, see your family doctor and ask about BX. |
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