Lungs

Tamariki (children) and rangatahi (young people) with bronchiectasis can have an action plan. You and your doctor or another member of your child's health team can discuss this so that it's right for your child. It lists your child's daily treatment and steps to take if your child becomes unwell. 

Bronchiectasis is a chest disease. The airways in the lungs have become damaged and scarred. Once a person has bronchiectasis, they usually have it for life. Good treatment stops it getting worse and in very young tamariki (children), can reverse some of the disease.

School is really important for tamariki (children) with bronchiectasis. Teachers can make a significant difference.

Coughing is common in tamariki (children), especially when they are preschool age. A cough that lasts longer than 4 weeks may be a sign of more serious disease.

Croup is a viral illness in young tamariki (children) which causes narrowing of the upper airways. Croup is often a mild illness but can quickly become serious, so don't hesitate to get medical help.