Going into battle with bronchiectasis

This video from Lung Foundation Australia presents a comprehensive and empowering webinar for people living with bronchiectasis, a chronic lung condition. Hosted by Grant Raja, who lives with the condition himself, the event was co-designed by bronchiectasis patients and features a diverse expert panel, including respiratory specialists Professor Lucy Morgan, Dr Vikas Goyal, Dr Anne-Marie Lee, and others. The purpose of the webinar is to address real-world questions submitted by the bronchiectasis community, providing practical information, personalised strategies, and evidence-based resources to help individuals better manage their condition and live active, healthy lives.

The discussion covers the fundamentals of bronchiectasis—what it is, how it differs from other respiratory conditions, and how it develops in both adults and children. The panel explores early detection, diagnosis through CT scans, and the importance of personalised care. It also delves into managing symptoms, preventing flare-ups, and treating infections, with emphasis on the role of airway clearance, physiotherapy, regular exercise, good nutrition, and vaccination.

The webinar addresses common misconceptions, particularly around coughing and contagion, and offers tips for coping with stigma in daily life. Experts stress the value of building a multidisciplinary care team, including GPs, specialists, and physiotherapists, and the importance of knowing one’s baseline health to detect changes early. Participants also learn about Lung Foundation Australia’s wide range of resources, including action plans, educational materials, peer support networks, and the Bronchiectasis Toolbox.

The video encourages viewers to adopt a holistic approach to lung health, balancing medical management with lifestyle factors like diet, hydration, breathing techniques, and emotional wellbeing. Viewers are left with actionable strategies to become “battle fit” and confident in managing bronchiectasis, supported by a growing national community and evidence-based guidance from Lung Foundation Australia. For more information about bronchiectasis or to speak to a Lung Foundation Australia Respiratory Care Nurse visit www.lungfoundation.com.au