Bronchiectasis increases the risk of stroke, impaired cognitive function, and sleep disturbances, a study reports.
Researchers said the findings suggest that the disease can affect several systems in the body, not just the airways and lungs. Damage to airways causes bronchiectasis, whose hallmark is enlarged air passages that can lead to a build-up of mucus, infections and other problems.
The study involved a review of other research. Titled “Neurological and Sleep Disturbances in Bronchiectasis,” it was published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine.
Little research has been done on possible links between bronchiectasis and neurological conditions such as stroke, brain infections and cognitive function. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients.
