Bronchial obstruction

Bronchial obstruction refers to a blockage in the bronchi, the main passageways into the lungs. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, tumors, and foreign body aspiration. Bronchial obstruction can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia and atelectasis, if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

Causes

Bronchial obstruction can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Infection: Infections can cause inflammation and swelling in the bronchi, leading to obstruction.
• Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors can cause bronchial obstruction.
• Foreign body aspiration: This occurs when a foreign object is inhaled into the bronchi, causing a blockage.

Symptoms

The symptoms of bronchial obstruction can vary depending on the cause and severity of the obstruction. Common symptoms include:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest pain

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of bronchial obstruction typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as chest X-ray or CT scan. In some cases, a bronchoscopy may be performed to directly visualize the bronchi and identify the cause of the obstruction.

Treatment

Treatment for bronchial obstruction depends on the cause of the obstruction. In cases of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If a tumor is causing the obstruction, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. In cases of foreign body aspiration, the object may need to be removed via bronchoscopy.

See also

• Asthma
• COPD
• Bronchitis