BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member Sherri who joins 5,195 current members of our community. We’re glad you're here!

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon Have you ever had one of those days where your breathing feels just a little “off”… but you’re not quite sure what to do next? 🫁

That’s where a Bronchiectasis Action Plan can really help.

Think of it as your personal roadmap - created together with your doctor - to guide you through the ups, the downs, and everything in between. It’s there for those moments when symptoms start to shift and you want to feel more confident about your next step.

An action plan can help you:
✨ Understand what your “baseline” looks like on a good day
✨ Recognize early warning signs (like changes in mucus, coughing, fatigue, or shortness of breath)
✨ Know what steps to take right away if things start to flare
✨ Feel more prepared about when it’s time to call your care team

The goal isn’t to make things complicated - it’s to make things clearer. When you already have a plan in place, it can take away some of the uncertainty and help you respond earlier, which can make a real difference.

If you don’t have one yet, it might be a great conversation to bring to your next appointment. You can even print one out ahead of time and go through it together so it truly fits your routine and your needs.

And if you already have one - this is a great reminder to take a quick look and make sure it still reflects how you’re feeling today.

💬 We’d love to hear from you:
Do you have an action plan in place? Has it helped you feel more prepared when symptoms change?

You’re not alone in this - we’re all learning from each other, one step at a time 💙

https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#ActionPlan

Downloads Library | Bronchiectasis and NTM Association

Thank you for your interest in Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 educational library. We have a variety of useful booklets, flyers, and tools to help you learn more about living with bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease.

11 hours ago

  • Ksmiles123 " An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure", as the old cliche goes, by Ben Franklin. His expression meant that, when dealing with a problem, spending a small amount of time and effort up early on is a good investment. It is better to take health precautions and to recognize early signs of respiratory issues than to deal with greater consequences later on.10 hours ago
KortneyMcCaffrey

KortneyMcCaffreyReal people. Real stories. A cause that matters 💙

The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association's Airways & Fairways Charity Golf Tournament will take place in Orlando, FL on May 15, 2026. At the tournament, we will feature a special Honor Wall that highlights the names and stories that inspire our mission.


Each name represents someone whose life has been impacted by bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease.


We invite you to honor someone meaningful in your life. You can share your own name or recognize a family member, caregiver, healthcare provider, or anyone who has been touched by respiratory disease.


To add your tribute, please visit: https://copdf.co/supportgolf
Then follow these steps:
• Select $10
• Check the box for Honor Wall Tribute
• Choose In honor of under Type of dedication
• Enter the individual’s name in the Honoree Name field
• Enter your contact information
• Click Give Securely


If you need any help, feel free to reach out to giving@bronchandntm.org.


Adding a name to the Honor Wall is a simple way to make a meaningful impact and support a future with earlier diagnosis, better care, and more hope for those affected.


For more information about the tournament, visit: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Get-Involved/Events/Airways-Fairways-Charity-Golf-Tournament

1 week ago

  • NewestOldest
  • Ksmiles123I am so happy to read about this upcoming fundraising event.  These events are not only a fundraiser, but they will also increase public awareness of BNTM throughout the country.  I dreamt about events such as this taking place years ago, when nothing was happening in the BNTM space.  We have come a long way over the past decade.  Any contribution to the honor wall adds up to makes a difference for our BNTM community.1 week ago
  • Alyssa DittnerThis is such a fun way to contribute to the cause and represent those affected. I have the pleasure of attending the event and cannot wait to see the names on display.1 week ago
Kalli Mago (Communications Coordinator)

Kalli Mago (Communications Coordinator)Are you familiar with the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association’s Care Center Network? This nationwide network of centers helps support high-quality, specialized care for bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease. 

Looking for expert care to help manage your lung health? Find a specialized center near you using our searchable directory: https://copdf.co/Find-Care

9 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

How do you currently track your respiratory symptoms?

The bronchiectasis symptom and therapy tracker was designed for
those who wish to track their symptoms. Using this tool will help you track how
you feel, your airway clearance performance, and your daily activity log.

This tool provides boxes to check off daily to track how you
feel overall. If you have 3 or more yellow days in a row, notify your health
care provider of changes in your symptoms.

Airway Clearance Tracker-If you find that you need to
perform airway clearance more than 3 times a day for three days, please notify
your health care provider of this change.

Daily Activity Log- includes a checklist for the most common
types of exercise and activities. Checking this box will note that you can continue
exercising, being unable to maintain your exercise plan is a red flag that
something is going on, and it may be time to contact your healthcare provider.

Some individuals may be in denial since no one wants to face
the fact that they are getting sick, dealing with a flare-up/ exacerbation.
Tracking and managing your symptoms on a timely basis is far better than
waiting until a respiratory issue worsens. I hope that you will find this
management tool helpful.

https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#Symptom









11 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Have you ever driven your car when you felt very tired but you decided to push through and drive anyway?  I don’t want to sound like a “ negative Nelly” - many individuals never experience severe fatigue but others may experience severe fatigue due to weather changes, medications, poor sleep and more. I have had two experiences in the past when I pushed myself to drive somewhere when I was very tired; I am grateful that no one was injured nor damage was caused to my car. It is best to be mindful of how you truly feel when you get behind the wheel.  Fatigue can impact us in ways, similar to drinking and driving. Below is an article on the signs and symptoms of drowsy driving. https://www.thensf.org/tips-for-preventing-drowsy-driving/
Do you have a story to share with our community about this subject? 

Do I Have Excessive Sleepiness? - National Sleep Foundation

Feeling overly drowsy during the day can come from poor sleep habits—or it could signal a sleep disorder. Learn more about excessive sleepiness.

2 days ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

🌞 Okay… who gave the outside permission to start looking this inviting again?! 🌿

You can feel it creeping in…
A little sunshine, a softer breeze, and that nudge that says, “Hey… maybe it’s time to get back out there for a bit.”

And honestly? That sounds pretty good.

As we ease into warmer days, it can be a great time to reconnect with the outdoors—but with bronchiectasis or NTM, a little planning can help keep things feeling good while you’re out there.

Here are a few “outside-ready” tips to keep things moving in the right direction:

💧 Hydration is your quiet helper
Warmer air + lungs that work a little harder = water becomes your best friend.

🌬️ Air quality still matters
Even on beautiful days, checking air quality can help you avoid unnecessary irritation.

😷 Mask up when it makes sense
Dust, pollen, yard work, or windy days—sometimes a mask can help reduce what you’re breathing in.

🧢 Dress for comfort (and the sun)
Light clothing, a hat, and a shady spot can go a long way in helping your body stay balanced.

🫁 Bring your go-to supports
Airway clearance tools, inhalers, oxygen—whatever helps you stay on track.
Keep those inhalers nearby—so the fun can keep rolling and your breathing stays right there with it.

🪑 Plan your “pause points”
A place to sit, rest, and reset isn’t a backup plan—it’s part of the plan.

🐢 Take it at your pace
There’s no rush here. A few minutes outside can be just as meaningful as a full afternoon.

🌼 Let’s hear from you:
What’s one thing you always bring (or wish you had brought 😄) when you head outside?

These warmer days don’t have to be all or nothing…
Just a little fresh air, your way, at your pace 💛

4 days ago

Globaltraveller

Globaltraveller

Gathering information/recommendations for a travel nebulizer. Many are hand-held rechargeable battery models. The medication is saline.  I would appreciate hearing from members who have actually own/used such a model for international travel. Thank you.

4 days ago

Kalli Mago (Communications Coordinator)

Kalli Mago (Communications Coordinator)April is National Stress Awareness Month! There are a lot of potential sources of stress in life with chronic lung disease. Symptoms such as coughing, breathlessness, and airway mucus can cause stress. Other common stressors include side effects of medication, digestive problems, or limitations on your life—like having to cancel plans to avoid illness or managing symptoms. 


Stress is a natural part of life, but over time, too much stress takes a toll on your mental and physical health. Do you practice healthy ways to cope with stress in your life? For some more ideas you can use, listen to this episode of our podcast. Patient Ambassador Katie Keating shares her own insights, along with key strategies you can use in your daily life. 🧘‍️🏝️🚶 


Listen here: https://copdf.co/mental-health

4 days ago

ej

ej

Overload of mucus as usual. Does anyone have “wet” bronchiectasis?

4 days ago

  • Ksmiles123Hello! I am sorry to read about your mucus overload. Wet Bronchiectasis is seen in many patients. When did you have your last sputum culture test done? Has your Pulmonologist discussed Brensocatib with you ? It is the first drug specifically approved to treat non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis; blocks enzymes contributing to airway inflammation
    Do you use mucus -thinning agents — Hypertonic saline and expectorants help loosen secretions. Had you been doing airway clearance on a regular basis? 4 days ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question ​New here, looking for guidance and shared experiences

NTM Patient Information Sheet https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#NTMInfoSheet

4 days ago

wajo23

wajo23asked the question: ​New here, looking for guidance and shared experiences

Hello everyone, I’m new to the Bronchiectasis & NTM community and wanted to introduce myself. I have recently started learning more about bronchiectasis and NTM and I’m here to better understand the condition, treatment options and day to day …

4 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Do you feel that you are following sleep suggestions and you are still unable to sleep?

Sleep is essential for healing and for functioning on a daily basis. Simple daily tasks, such as meal preparation, bathing and other activiites of daily living require menatl and physical energy. We do not have the energy if we are sleep deprived.The …

5 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question CT shows NTM MAI possibility but Negative Labs?

Lynne, Have they ever mentioned the diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis? I have had this diagnosis in the past. Please do reach out when you are up to it.

5 days ago

Lady Graham

Lady Graham

I am so glad to have found this group as my first Infectious Disease appointment was last week. My BP was uncharacteristically high when I arrived.  The two physicians I saw were very well informed about my positive NTM abcesses  positive culture.  Unfortunately they only had the reports of my recent CT scans.  I am having another CT Scan tomorrow and the digital films have been released to the ID docs.  As I currently do not have any symptoms of the NTM, the current decision is to watchful wait.  Once my new CT Scan can be compared we will meet again.  The physician say it is uncommon to have NTM without symptoms.  I do have bronchiectasis, occasionally use a flutter device.  It is rare that I produce sputum when using the device.  Are there others in this forum who are also watchfully waiting?  I wonder how long I could remain symptom free before the NTM causes symptoms to flare.  I appreciate all of your postings as I learn more about what could be ahead.

5 days ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments4 comment(s)
  • das23Welcome Lady Graham......I do airway clearance every day--It's keeping me infection free5 days ago
  • Ksmiles123Das23,
    Hello! I am so glad you are doing well.:) 5 days ago
  • das23👍4 days ago
TimD

TimD created the event May 2026 BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break

Hello everyone! Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break is Thursday, May 07, 2026 @ 2:30pm EST. We moved the May Coffee Break so it wouldn’t conflict with the NTMir Conference on May 14 and 15. Dr. Shelby MacRae, MD, Assistant Professor of Clinical …

6 days ago

  • Ksmiles123I am looking forward to DrMacRae in joining us again for the next coffee break. Effective communication with your healthcare provider is of utmost importance to achieve the best possible outcomes. I hope that you will be able to join us for this valuable discussion. 6 days ago
LynnE1

LynnE1asked the question: CT shows NTM MAI possibility but Negative Labs?

Multiple CTs have shown possible NTM MAI but every bronchoscopy and sputum labs have been negative. I have had the fundiplication Ctiff surgery, 4 sinus procedurbues and continue to have heavy thick sputum daily with non-stop coughing. I use 7% sodium …

6 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Sleep is not a luxury for those living with BNTM—it’s part
of the treatment plan. 💙 Sleep is your body’s
built-in repair system. When sleep improves, everything else becomes a little
more manageable. When you sleep, your body does its deepest healing:

✨Supports and strengthens your
immune system to better fight infection

✨Brain reset& clarity -Your brain
clears out waste, strengthens memory, improves focus, and emotional balance.
Sleep improves energy, mood, and resilience

✨Aids in tissue repair and
recovery. Poor sleep can result in more
fatigue and slower healing.

🌙 Aim for a consistent bedtime,🌙
elevate your head if you have acid reflux and or breathing is an issue, and🌙
create a calm, low-stimulation wind-down routine. Sleep isn’t just “rest”—it’s an active,
essential repair and regulation process that affects almost every system in
your body.

Below is an additional list of what is really happening
while you sleep: Physical repair & healing: Tissue repair,
muscle recovery, and lung inflammation are reduced. This is especially
important for recovery and resilience in BNTM patients. ⚖️
Hormone balance-Sleep regulates hormones that control stress (cortisol),
appetite (ghrelin/leptin), and blood sugar—impacting weight, mood, and energy.❤
Heart health-Blood pressure lowers, heart rate stabilizes, and lowers strain on
the heart .🌿 Energy restoration-Deep sleep restores your
energy at a cellular level—this is why poor sleep feels like running on empty.
Think of sleep as your body’s nightly “maintenance system”—cleaning, repairing,
balancing, and preparing you to function the next day. Do you have suggestions
for others to improve their sleep quality?

1 week ago

JerseyGals

JerseyGals

Hi,
I am newly diagnosed with bronchiectasis and NTM and am about to start treatment. I am very concerned about some of the possible adverse effects from the medications that I have been reading about. 

1 week ago

Kalli Mago (Communications Coordinator)

Kalli Mago (Communications Coordinator)Have you ever been told you just have “severe asthma” or “COPD,” only to later discover that bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease had been overlooked? In the latest episode of our podcast, Dr. Ashwin Basavaraj, Associate Director at NYU Langone Health, unpacks how asthma, COPD, and other disorders can overlap with bronchiectasis and why these connections are often missed. Plus, what are some red flags to look out for, and when should you push for additional testing? 
Listen here: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Podcasts

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Is a good night’s sleep a challenge for you?  The combination of good sleep, medications, therapies, and good nutrition will assist you in healing .Below is a blog article on sleep hygiene that offers some tips. Sleeping and Healing for BNTM Patients: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/150/Sleep-and-Healing-for-NTMBronchiectasis-Patients

Sleep and Healing for NTM/Bronchiectasis Patients

This blog post was written by Katie Keating, RN, MS, patient advocate and reviewed by the Bronchiectasis and NTM Initiative Content Review and Evaluation Committee. Sleep impacts every part of our lives and our health. It is essential for immune health and overall psychological and physical …

1 week ago

Pam in Colorado

Pam in Colorado

Katie, and all, this a a question about controlling GERD that some or many of us struggle with. I have ordered Reflux Gourmet, which is yet to arrive so have not tried it.  And then I found this product through research; it is called Slippery Elm powder and is available to order or can be found in the Denver area at Natural Grocers in a 1 oz packet or a 4 oz bottle.
Has anyone tried this Slippery Elm Bark?  It acts a bit differently from Reflux Gourmet, yet is somewhat similar and is also a natural product.
After taking famotadine daily for almost a year, first at 20mg once in the morning, then thankfully found 10mg famotidine, I stopped taking it a few days ago. The famotadine was prescribed by the 
GI specialist at NJH. 
I am set now to simply keep my stomach in good shape by not filling it too full. 
If you have experience with Slippery Elm, please let me know.

1 week ago

  • NewestOldest
  • Ksmiles123Pam,Slippery Elm tea is another option. All supplements such as herbal teas can help some individuals, and not help other individuals. Some teas seem to work magically for some individuals but make other individuals feel blah.  No harm if you try it and see how you feel. Reactions to supplements are all individualized; there is not enough evidence based research on most supplements or teas. We are not allowed to endorse any particular supplements, or brands. Please discuss any supplements you add with your GI doctor. Do you have a registered dietitian under your health insurance plan? 1 week ago
  • Pam in ColoradoThank you, Katy, for your response. I really like the presentations given at our Coffee Breaks by the dietitian from NJH. Her talks have helped me in this strange journey with GERD.1 week ago
  • Ksmiles123Pam,
    You are most welcome! We desire for you to have the best quality of life possible. 1 week ago
Janis Harmon

Janis Harmon

I am down for the count. I was good for three weeks no infection. Two days ago I got another infection. Waiting to see the doctor on Tuesday.

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! A review of Stress Basics 101- Stress is the reaction of the brain and body to situations that put us in harm's way. The stressor may be a physical threat or a psychological threat. The stress response is our body's attempt to keep us safe from harm. When we are under stress, the chemistry (chemicals) in our brain changes. Changes in the chemicals in our brains affect our thinking patterns.The "fight or flight" response means that we have two basic ways of protecting ourselves when faced with a threat. We can run (flee) or try to overcome the threat ( fight). Good stress is when we can take on the problem at hand and return to the feeling of safety afterwards. Bad stress occurs when we have no or little control over the results. Body and brain chemistry become overreactive and get out of balance- this is known as the "freeze response". Learning how to deal with stressors in your daily life will reduce the chance of being in "freeze mode". Staying in the "freeze mode" impacts your physical and immune health. We are here to support you in learning new ways to deal with ongoing stressors. Please let us know if you have any questions. 
 Below is a short YouTube video on the fight, flight, or freeze response.

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question sudden onset of symptoms

Please up date us after you see your Pulmonologist. Adults with weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases are at higher risk of getting haemolophus. I have observed that many urgent care centers write prescriptions so readily without knowing the …

1 week ago

Kath

Kathasked the question: sudden onset of symptoms

I am a newly diagnosed case of bronchiectasis. So far, no NTM present. Yesterday, all of a sudden, I had severe chills, body aches, fatigue, and fever. As the afternoon progressed, my chest and entire abdomen started to hurt, and it was somewhat painful …

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Were you able to watch the landing of Artemis 11 last evening? It was amazing to watch history in the making. We must believe that anything is possible in time.; more companies have shown interest in the field of BNTM over the past decade than ever before. BNTM Care Centers are opening up throughout the country, a greater number of medications and treatments are in the pipeline. Hold on to HOPE for better days ahead! https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c3dlnzv5r71t

Artemis II crew 'happy and healthy' after completing historic mission to the Moon

Nasa hails a "textbook" splashdown in the Pacific Ocean after the four astronauts travelled further from Earth than any humans before.

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! A coping skills toolbox is a collection of strategies designed to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. These toolboxes can include various techniques and activities tailored to different situations and personal preferences.Components of a Coping Skills Toolbox may include - Coping Strategies: Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or journaling that help regulate emotions.Creative Activities: Engaging in art, music, or writing to express feelings and distract from stress.Physical Activities: Exercise or movement-based strategies such as walking that promote physical well-being and reduce anxiety.Social Connections: Encouraging interaction with friends or family to foster support and connection.ideas for building a personal coping skills toolbox. Identifying personal triggers, and having your toolbox ready will improve your daily life. A few items in my toolbox include listening to upbeat music, journaling, walking, trashing negative thoughts, not overbooking due to uncertainty of stamina , keeping things in perspective and celebrating little wins. Emotional health toolboxes  can help individuals create a personalized approach to be prepared in managing their emotional health more effectively. Do you have a coping skills toolbox idea to share with the community? 

1 week ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

Sometimes depression doesn’t look like what we expect.

It’s not always tears.
It’s not always obvious.

Sometimes it’s just feeling… off.
Like you’re there, but not really there.
Like everything takes more effort than it should.
Like you’re tired in a way that rest doesn’t fix.

And when you’re living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM, or caring for someone who is — that weight can quietly build over time.

The physical side is already a lot.
The mental side can be just as heavy.

It might look like:
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Pulling back from people or conversations
• Feeling overwhelmed by small things
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Low energy, low motivation, or trouble focusing
• Being harder on yourself than you’d ever be on anyone else

And sometimes… you can’t quite explain it at all.

If this sounds familiar, please don’t brush it off.

Don’t ignore how you’re feeling. It matters.

You don’t have to “push through” everything on your own.
You don’t have to wait until it gets worse to say something.

We are a community here — and you matter here.

On the hard days, even something small can help:
a message, a check-in, a few minutes outside, a familiar song, a quiet moment to breathe.

And if all you can do today is get through the day — that counts.

You are not a burden.
You are not alone.
And you don’t have to carry this quietly.

If you feel up to it, what’s something that helps you when the days feel heavier? 💙

1 week ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments5 comment(s)
  • das23If anyone is not feeling well emotionally----Reach out--There IS help✌1 week ago
  • Pam in ColoradoI remember something my cousin said. He struggled with depression for many years. When I fell down the rabbit hole after first losing my dad, then my mom, then caring for my debilitated sister, something triggered the full-on depression. And then my cousin said, "It always gets better."
    Perhaps it's like grief, you just have to work your way through it, one day at a time.
    Then I discovered that there is a way to train your brain to think in only positive terms, to find the joy in all of life, and this is after that deep state of depression when the sunlight offends, when you feel it is better just not to be "here" because you are in pain, when you have no energy, when you cannot give because you are in that state of what I felt like was selfishness, with no hope. But it does always get better.


    1 week ago
  • Ksmiles123Pam, 
    Thank you for sharing your experience. I am sorry for your losses and challenges.
    Many of us have been through some extremely challenging times, never thinking that we would be able to get to the other side. Pain, grief, multiple losses whether it be a person, a lifestyle change, loss of your former health status, a career combined can lead to depression. We must believe that these feelings can lighten up over time when one gets support from a sibling, a friend, a support group or elsewhere. Support, encouragement and a sense of belonging goes a long way. We must always hold onto hope, believing that there will be better days ahead. 1 week ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Living with BNTM can bring moments of stress—but small,
intentional steps can make a big difference. 💙

A few of the many things that can cause stress may include- things
not going your way, things not going the way they “should”, misperceptions,
frustrations with your healthcare professionals’ office/ managing your own healthcare,
taking things personally, and so much more. A few tips on managing these
stressors include the following:

✨Breathe deeply: Even 3–5 slow breaths
can calm your nervous system

✨Create a daily “quiet pocket”: A
few minutes of stillness, or mindfulness

✨Gentle movement: Stretching or a
short walk can ease both body and mind

✨Stay connected: You’re not alone—reach
out to someone who understands

✨Celebrate small wins: Every airway
clearance, every push to the next appointment, and each step forward in the
right direction matters. Stress doesn’t define your journey—your resilience does.
One calm moment at a time. Would you like to share some of your stress management
tips with our BNTM community?

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Do you have a used vehicle that you no longer need? Your vehicle can help support something meaningful.

Donate your car, truck, or SUV to the COPD Foundation and help accelerate our work to create a better future for those living with chronic lung disease.

Free pick-up. Easy process.

🚗 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gfKUcXcZ

1 week ago

Medical Advice

It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with bronchiectasis and NTM, please consult a physician before making changes to your own disease management plan.

 
NTM Infographic 1
NTM Infographic 2
NTM Infographic 3
NTM Infographic 4