Is bronchiectasis infectious?

Question

Just wondering, because my friend has it... so should I stay away from her??? I understand she is obviously having a hard time and everything, but I don't really want to catch anything myself. I know I might sound a bit selfish, but I know she has had a history of other diseases and conditions as well.

Answer 1

yeh

Answer 2

It isn't infectious--Bronchiectasis is a permanent abnormal widening (dilation) in one or more of the airways (bronchi). Extra mucus tends to form and pool in the parts of the airways that are widened. Widened airways with extra mucus are prone to infection

The cause is often not clear and no cause can be found in over half of cases. An underlying cause is found in about 4 in 10 cases. Some conditions that affect or damage airways can cause bronchiectasis. Examples include the following.

Some inherited conditions. For example, a condition called primary ciliary dyskinesia affects the cilia so they do not 'beat' correctly to clear the mucus. Cystic fibrosis is another condition that affects the lungs and causes 'bronchiectatic' airways. Some rare immune problems can cause lung infections and damage to airways.

Inhaled objects, such as peanuts, can become stuck and block an airway. This may lead to local damage to that airway. Acid from the stomach that is regurgitated and inhaled can also damage airways. Inhaling poisonous gases may also cause damage.

Severe lung infections such as tuberculosis (TB), whooping cough, pneumonia or measles can damage the airways at the time of infection. Ongoing bronchiectasis may then develop.

Answer 3

No it's not unless you go down on her then you might catch something. ;-)