Bronchiectasis is a condition in which the lungs' airways are abnormally stretched and widened. This stretching and widening is caused by mucus blockage. More and more mucus builds up in the airways, allowing bacteria to grow. This leads to infection.
Bronchiectasis can develop at any age. It begins most often in childhood, but symptoms may not appear until much later. Bronchiectasis can occur as part of a birth defect or as a result of injury or other diseases, like tuberculosis, pneumonia and influenza. It also can be caused by a blockage in your airways due to a growth or something you inhaled as a child such as a piece of a toy or peanut.
Bronchiectasis cannot be cured. But with proper treatment most people with bronchiectasis can live a normal life.