Recognising symptoms

  • Learning to recognise what is ‘normal’ for you is something that you will develop over time. You will also start to recognise signs that things are changing, for example when you are getting an exacerbation or chest infection.
  • For some people this will be a change in sputum (phlegm) colour or and increase in amount. For others it can be a feeling of fatigue or tiredness, feeling feverish, worsening cough or chest pain.
  • It is important that you learn to recognise what the signs of an infection are for you so that you know when to act and when you need to have antibiotics.
  • Learning to recognise these signs is an important part of taking control of your bronchiectasis and being able to work in a partnership with your heath care team.
  • Remember, you will know your body better than anyone else so you will play a key role in managing your condition. This is called self-management and is an important part of the care of any chronic disease.
  • Your health care team can advise you about what signs to look out for and learning about your condition is helpful too.
"I know, when I get poorly that’s it, the coughing, it’s mostly the coughing, and more phlegm, breathlessness." Celia, 67
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