< 1 min read

Causes

Bronchiectasis can sometimes develop after serious lung infections, like pneumonia, whooping cough or tuberculosis, especially if it happens when someone is young. But often, doctors don't know exactly what causes it.

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Here are some things that can make bronchiectasis more likely:

  • Having other lung problems, like severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma or fungal allergy.
  • Problems with the body’s immune system (which helps fight off infections)
  • Diseases that cause inflammation, like rheumatoid arthritis
  • Problems with clearing mucus from the lungs
  • Obstruction of breathing tubes.

Respiratory Care Nurse

Our Respiratory Care Nurse phone service is for people living with COPD or bronchiectasis. Our nurses can give you advice about your condition based on the latest guidelines. To make a free phone appointment, call our Information and Support Centre on 1800 654 301 (free call) or book online.

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Last updated on July 2nd, 2025 at 02:19 pm

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