Hello Eric, It takes at least an x-ray, if not a CT scan, to diagnose bronchiectasis. This is not a condition that comes on suddenly in most cases - it is a progression from other long-term conditions like asthma, coupled a trigger like a severe infection or bout of pneumonia.

Can you tell us a little bit about the bad illness that brought you to this point? Also about whether you have had any chest xrays?
Sue