For patients
Here you will find advice on self-help, useful information sources and practical resources to support you in your daily life with bronchiectasis.
Information and support for people with bronchiectasis
A diagnosis of bronchiectasis initially raises many questions for those affected. What does the condition mean for my daily life? What treatment options are available? How can I actively contribute to my own health?
Many people initially feel uncertain or left to cope on their own after receiving a diagnosis. On this page, we aim to help you find your bearings more quickly and access reliable information.
Bronchiectasis Self-Help Association
An important point of contact for people with bronchiectasis is the Bronchiektasen e.V. self-help association. The association is a patient-led organisation. This means it was founded by people living with the condition and is aimed directly at those with bronchiectasis and their families.
The association’s aim is to connect those affected, provide clear information and support people with bronchiectasis in their daily lives. Among other things, the association offers:
• clear information on bronchiectasis
• support immediately following the initial diagnosis
• the chance to talk to others affected
• advice on treatment, daily life and lifestyle
• Information on different stages of life with bronchiectasis
Especially following diagnosis, connecting with other people affected can help you better understand the condition and find ways to manage it effectively. As the condition progresses, the association also provides helpful information on topics such as work, travel, exercise, infections and long-term treatment. Further information can be found on the association’s website.
Other self-help groups
Bronchiectasis can have various causes. It may therefore be helpful to find out about other conditions that may be associated with bronchiectasis.
Here you will find information on alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, as well as guidance on diagnosis, treatment and support services for those affected.
Visit Alpha1 Deutschland e.V.This page provides information on primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) and Kartagener’s syndrome, as well as guidance on diagnosis, treatment and support groups for those affected.
Visit Kartagener Syndrom und Primäre Ciliäre Dyskinesie e. V.Here you can find information on primary immunodeficiencies, including symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, as well as support services for those affected and their families.
Visit dsai e.V.Here you will find information on cystic fibrosis, current treatments and support services for those affected and their families.
Visit Mukoviszidose e.V.General information about lung diseases
You can find further information on lung diseases on the following pages:
Respiratory League
The German Respiratory League provides clear information on respiratory conditions, as well as advice on managing lung diseases in everyday life.
Visit “Atemwegsliga”Respiratory exercise
Regular exercise can help improve physical fitness and maintain quality of life. Here you will find information about pulmonary rehabilitation groups where people with chronic lung conditions can exercise under professional supervision.
Visit “Lungensport”Lung Information Service
The Lung Information Service is an independent health portal that provides scientifically verified information on lung diseases, including bronchiectasis. It is run by Helmholtz Munich in collaboration with the German Centre for Lung Research.
Visit “Lungeninformationsdienst”Information material for patients
In addition to general information, we would also like to provide you with resources that may be helpful in your day-to-day life with bronchiectasis. The following leaflets offer a brief and easy-to-understand overview of key aspects of bronchiectasis.
Information leaflet
Bronchiectasis
This leaflet explains in simple terms what bronchiectasis is, what causes it and what symptoms may occur, as well as the available treatment and therapy options.
Information leaflet
Hygiene considerations
Here you will find practical advice on preventing infections and maintaining good hygiene in everyday life. This includes, for example, tips on hand hygiene and the use of inhalers, as well as advice on sport, travel and pets.
Appendix 2 to the S2k guideline
Management of adult patients with
bronchiectasis
Physiotherapy and inhalation therapy for bronchiectasis
Respiratory physiotherapy and inhalation therapy are key components of treatment. They help to loosen mucus from the airways and prevent infections.
Techniques and exercises
Here you will find information on various techniques and exercises.
Visit the websitePhysiotherapists
Here you can find physiotherapists with specialist training in respiratory physiotherapy.
Visit the websiteInhalation
Here you will find information and videos on how to use inhalers correctly.
Visit the websiteVaccination recommendations
Infections can affect the course of bronchiectasis. Certain vaccinations can help reduce the risk of serious respiratory infections. Here you will find information on vaccinations recommended for people with lung conditions, such as those against flu or pneumococcal disease.
Visit “Lungeninformationsdienst”