Can bronchiectasis be related to pneumonia?
Patient: I was diagnosed with bronchiectasis four years ago.  Since then I have had pneumonia four times.  Last week I was exposed to a lot of outdoor smoke and my chest and throat felt raw.  I had pain in my ribs and that was made worse by touching.  No fever or sweating. Saw my doctor and he xrayed two days ago.  Has not said anything but i wonder if it was a bronchial attack or heart involvement.  I continue to have a dry cough when outside or at night time. Doctor: Hi welcome to HCM...You had bronchiectasis before 4 year.In that by obstruction and so collection of secretion chances of infection more.So you had developed pneumonia thereafter.Just now after exposure to smoke you can have bronchitis and so on cough...If wheezing and dyspnea present then bronchodilator needed.Otherwise just Antihistaminic taken...Avoid smoking and air pollution like respiratory irritant....For congestion relief eucalyptus lozenges helpful...Echinacea herbal product that resist infection and improve immune system.Take care.If condition worsen then chest x ray needed.Dr.Parth