A condition with no cause

In bronchiectasis, the airways of the lungs (bronchi) become abnormally wide, leading to a build-up of mucus that can make lungs more prone to infection.

It affects one in every 1,000 adults. Over 12,000 were admitted to hospital in England in 2013-14, the majority over 60.

The most common symptoms include a persistent, phlegmy cough and breathlessness. Severity varies widely.

It can develop if the tissues that surround the bronchi are damaged by a childhood lung infection such as pneumonia or whooping cough. However, in many cases there is no obvious cause.

The damage done to the lungs by bronchiectasis is permanent, but exercises and antibiotics can help to relieve the symptoms.