When I got my bronchiectasis diagnosis, I felt relieved

Laurel shares how getting diagnosis of bronchiectasis helped her finally understand and manage her symptoms.

Laurel, Asthma + Lung UK supporter
Published 5th September 2025

I was diagnosed with asthma after having a bad chest infection.

After a bout of swine flu, I had a cough that never left. My doctors think that was when my lungs were damaged.

I kept going back to my GP as my cough wasn’t going away. They referred me to a specialist at my local hospital who did a CT scan and diagnosed me with bronchiectasis.

I found Asthma + Lung UK’s website really helpful when I wanted to learn more about bronchiectasis.

Last year, I signed up for the London Landmarks Half Marathon for Asthma + Lung UK to mark my diagnosis and to fundraise for others with lung conditions. My grandad also signed up to the half marathon as he wanted to support me.

The training in the lead up and the event itself was a real core memory for us both, particularly when we crossed the finish line and I grabbed my grandad's hand. In total we were able to fundraise £945! I am enjoying running and plan to keep going with it as it has helped improve my lung health.

Managing your bronchiectasis well can help you to feel better and more in control. Our Bronchiectasis Patient Passport is a checklist to help you make sure you're getting the best care for your bronchiectasis. 

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