About the disease
A bronchial ulcer is a pulmonary condition that damages the lining of the bronchi and can also develop in the mucous bronchial membrane. The bronchi are the airway passageways that transport air to the lungs. Bronchial ulcers can develop as a result of bronchitis or pneumonia. People most at risk of developing a bronchial ulcer are those with a genetic predisposition or who frequently contract pulmonary infections. Coal workers, who are exposed to various dangerous chemicals, can also develop a bronchial ulcer after a continuous period of working in the mines.
Bronchial ulceration is considered to be a very rare condition. It is usually caused by bacterial infections. Ulceration of the bronchial passageway develops very gradually and may only manifest symptoms several weeks or even months after the infection has taken place. Someone with a bronchial ulcer is likely to feel chest pain, which can progress from mild discomfort to severe pain. They may also experience breathing problems. A bronchial ulcer may contribute to further complications as the lungs become more susceptible to bacterial infection. In rare cases, a tracheal ulcer may also appear, but chances for that are very low. This disease has a high recovery rate if the patient starts treatment in time. Delaying treatment can ultimately result in such complications as a lung abscess, which takes longer to cure.
Symptoms
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Chronic coughing or sneezing, sometimes with blood
- Shortness of breath
- Blue skin, caused by insufficient amount of oxygen in the body
Diagnosis
- During a general examination, the doctor will use a stethoscope to listen to the patient’s breathing and check for wheezing.
- Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan can determine if the lining of the bronchi is damaged and whether there are any signs of ulceration. These tests can also rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as bronchitis or bronchiectasis.
- An X-ray of the lungs can also determine whether they have been affected by an ulcer.
Treatment
- Conservative treatment is often enough to fight off any infections that caused the appearance of a bronchial ulcer. People who work in the mines or in other places where they are exposed to harmful chemicals, are advised to terminate this employment immediately. Special antibiotics and drugs are prescribed as well.
- If conservative treatment is unsuccessful, the ulcer may need to be surgically removed. Resection is especially recommended if the ulcer has caused bleeding in the bronchi, which is a medical emergency. Following surgery, the patient may need to stay in hospital for several days or weeks to ensure that they can breathe well again.
Authors: Dr. Nadezhda Ivanisova, Dr. Farrukh Ahmed
