Pseudomonas--A Pet or a Threat?

About 25% of people with bronchiectasis will at some point develop a Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. The older we are, the more widespread our bronchiectasis and the poorer our lung function, the more likely we are to get this type of infection.

During the recent European Lung Foundation Bronchiectasis Patient Conference 2022, Dr Josje Altenburg from Amsterdam discussed whether this infection should be treated. She asked—”Is the Pseudomonas a threat or a pet?”

Have a listen--

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bNlHxTIY14

It is important to understand the issues Dr Altenburg presents in the event we repeatedly grow Pseudomonas in our sputum cultures. I found her talk about new therapies to eradicate Pseudomonas fascinating, especially the possible use of monoclonal antibodies and bacteriophages.

Regular sputum cultures are critical for good health as sometimes there are no indications that Pseudomonas is causing an infection. However, particularly for those of us who have had these infections in the past, we might notice health changes such as fatigue, coughing and more sputum production.

Additionally, for some, our sputum might turn greenish and have a strong odor.

A key to living with bronchiectasis is understanding the nature and management of the disease and the pros and cons of treatments. Being acquainted with the issues puts us in the driver’s seat.

In the future, if we are presented with challenges, we can further educate ourselves and along with our medical team, make well-informed decisions.

#pseudomonas #lungdisease #bronchiectasis
#airwayclearance #sputum #mucus #phelgm #lunginfection #lunginflammation