BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member KathyS who joins 5,015 current members of our community. We’re glad you're here!

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

As we close out another year here in Bronchiectasis & NTM 360social, it’s a good moment to pause and reflect on the strength, compassion, and connection that live within this community. Every story shared, every question asked, and every word of encouragement reminds us that none of us are walking this journey alone.

This year also asked us to hold space for loss. We said goodbye to some truly special people whose courage, honesty, and kindness helped shape this community. Though they are no longer with us, their spirit remains — in the support we offer, the understanding we share, and the hope they passed along to each of us. Their light continues to guide us forward.

As we look ahead, there is so much to feel hopeful about. New treatments, new knowledge, new connections, and new moments of encouragement await. Even on the harder days, this space reminds us that strength can look like asking questions, sharing experiences, or simply showing up for one another.

Together, we move into the new year with heart, resilience, and a deep sense of care for one another. We’ll keep learning, supporting, and lifting each other up — one step, one breath, one day at a time.

Thank you for being part of this community and for making it a place of warmth, understanding, and hope. Here’s to a new year filled with connection, compassion, and brighter days ahead. 💙

1 day ago

  • Ksmiles123Brandon,
    Thank you for your warmth, understanding and uplifting words of encouragement and hope offered throughout the year. We will continue to support one another in the new year, reminding each member that they are not alone on their journey. 1 day ago
360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

❄ A Gentle Weather Check-In for Our 360social Family ❄

As many of you are already seeing — and others are about to feel — an intense wave of cold weather is moving through, even in areas that have already been dealing with heavy snow. We wanted to take a moment to check in and encourage everyone to move gently and mindfully over the next few days.

Cold air, icy conditions, and sudden temperature changes can be especially challenging for those living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM, and other lung conditions. If you’re able, try to stay warm, limit time outdoors, and make sure you have what you need close by — medications, oxygen supplies, warm layers, and anything that helps you feel steady and supported.

It’s also okay to slow things down. Rest when you need to. Cancel plans if it feels like too much. Choosing safety and comfort is not falling behind — it’s caring for yourself.

If you’re in an area being impacted, please know you’re not alone. We’re holding space for you, sending warmth your way, and hoping everyone stays safe as this weather moves through.

Feel free to check in below and let us know how you’re doing — or share any tips that help you get through colder days. 💙

Stay warm. Stay safe. We’re in this together.

3 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

New Year’s Eve is a time to review what you are grateful for in your daily lives. There’ is a lot of research on the practice of gratitude.  The participants in a particular gratitude research group reported  feeling happier, sleeping better , exercised more and  had more energy and engagement.  
It is easy to start a Gratitude Journal, whether you use a notebook or individual pieces of paper. Lowering stress in our lives helps our immune response. Are you ready to start a Gratitude Journal? 

8 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Tis the day of New Year’s Eve! Hard to believe we are approaching 2026. Do you have any specific health care goals that you would like to share with the community?

15 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

The H3N2 strain is making the news this week. The article below differentiates this strain from the regular flu and the coronavirus: https://mymedicineadvisor.com/health/new-h3n2-flu-symptoms-doctors-warn/
Please let us know if you have any questions. It is not too late if you haven’t gotten the flu shot. 

1 day ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments4 comment(s)
  • Ksmiles123Brandon,
    You are most welcome. 
    Yes, I heard it was nastier than usual strains. I have a bad headcold now; I am hoping that it passes soon. 1 day ago
  • StorytellerI received the over 65 years flu shot in mid October. I contracted influenza a last week , which caused me to develop cardiomyopathy and landed me in the hospital. I am out now and trying to get more straight back. I am always very careful about wearing masks, stauimg away from crowds….Has anyone else had this happen ?4 hours ago
  • StorytellerGet my strength back 4 hours ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Have you been thinking about goals for the new year?
The blog article below reviews information on setting goals and objectives. The article was written in 2022, the first paragraph of the article is outdated. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/164/Goal-Setting-and-the-NTMBronchiectasis-Patient

1 day ago

Hedgie

Hedgie

Hello All. I'm fairly new to the bronchiectasis journey. I was diagnosed two years ago. It seems like exacerbations are getting more frequent and longer lasting so I am going to Mayo Clinic specialist clinic for more testing and a second opinion.


I'm telling myself regardless of the outcome, I'll know I did my due diligence. But I am really struggling with the limitations this condition is putting on my life. How have you come to terms with the adjustments you had to make in terms of work, social activities, and family?

3 days ago

SoCalSurfer

SoCalSurfer

😎Glad to be part of this group! This is a new journey, and from what I have read so far, you are a very supportive community.

3 days ago

Niamhy

Niamhy

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has had symptoms of severe nausea with MAC or M Abcsessus? I have had this on and off for a few months, but now I am suffering on a daily basis. I am not on antibiotics at the moment. I just take Lansoprazole in the morning for my GERD and Vesicare before going to sleep for the kidney damage caused by the big 3. I do regular airway clearance, eat as well as I can and exercise when I feel well enough to do so. I take Ondansetron for the nausea - it worked so well for the first few days but now it appears not to be. Perhaps the Abcsessus is taking hold and causing all this. The nausea goes in the afternoon but I am unable to do anything in the morning. Would love to hear from anyone who has suffered from this problem. 

3 days ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments5 comment(s)
  • Ksmiles123Niamhy,
    Hello!  Thank you for your positive words. I am glad that you have seen the specialists to rule out the possible cause of nausea . Do you have a hiatal hernia? Sometimes, doctors make light of this. This diagnosis can be seen on a Endoscopy or a Chest Cat San.
    Yes, anxiety can come into the picture but not many people complain of major nausea due to anxiety.
    It is very challenging to have to go on multiple antibiotics again. I hope that your appointment with your GP goes well and you get a plan in place. Uncertainty about treatment is very anxiety producing . We are here for you. 2 days ago
  • NiamhyI have a 2cm hiatal hernia it only affects me if I bend down to put my socks on instead of sitting on the bed. After my endoscope the person doing it said that it was a small hernia and not worth having an operation. 
    The GP I saw was lovely and said that I had a lot going on and feelings of anxiety could be a cause. She told me to take the 4mg Ondansetron before drinking coffee/green tea in the morning. I did that today and I was fine. I also need to stop doing too many things - learning to pace myself has been a tricky hurdle for me. 
    It has been a tough Christmas too without my mum. I have avoided going to friends etc as many of them have had flu and bad colds. They are very understanding however I do miss the social interaction. My husband has kept me going, he has been my rock. Hopefully 2026 will prove to be positive. Thank you once again for your wise words. This is a bumpy journey for us all. 1 day ago
  • Ksmiles123Niamhy,
    You are most welcome! It does take some time to accept the “ new normal “ and pace ourselves . It is very challenging to have a chronic lung condition, especially at this time of the year. We are torn between protecting ourselves vs. social isolation. We are the only ones who can decide what is best for us.
    I am glad the medicine provided you with some relief this morning.
    Did your doctor recommend Nexium or Pepsin for your hernia? There are certain foods that some people avoid with smaller hiatal hernias if you are interested I will post some links.
    Dealing with a loss is especially difficult around the holidays- we want to go back in time and have the holidays like they used to be.
    I am so glad that you have a supportive, understanding husband.1 day ago
Terrance

Terrance

Better today. NTM several years. Yearly C.T. scans, keeping eye on nodules. Getting over a significant cold. Between the 2 lots of productive coughing. It’s interesting to read others stories with NTM. 

5 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! I realize that this is a busy time of year for many people- we cannot forget to do airway clearance at this time of the year. Below is an infographic on airway clearance with links for further information: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/DownloadsLibrary/Files/Quick_guide_to_airway_clearance_Web.pdf

5 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

6 days ago

marsrocket

marsrocketMerry Christmas to all members who celebrate the holiday. 

6 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Wishing you peace, health and warmth this holiday season! 

6 days ago

das23

das23

Merry Christmas to All🎄✌

6 days ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

Wishing our Bronch & NTM family and friends, a safe and happy holiday. May it be filled with comfort, kindness, and your breathing feel a little easier as we celebrate together! 💙 

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Merry Christmas 🎄🎁 Eve to the members who celebrate Christmas. I hope that you are feeling okay and are able to enjoy some of the holiday festivities.  This season can be so joyful, especially if you have little children or grandchildren. If you are not feeling well, hold onto hope that the next holiday will be better. Listening to beautiful songs of the season and the traditional movies can be uplifting if you’re not up to being with a group at this time. 

1 week ago

marsrocket

marsrocketHappy first full day of winter. For the next six months the days will slowly get longer, meaning there will be more sunshine to recharge our batteries. 

1 week ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

💥 ✨ We’re getting close to 5,000 members! It’s amazing to see our community continue to grow, and we’re so grateful as we look toward a great start to the new year!  ✨ 💥

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Dealing with a chronic illness can be challenging at anytime of the year, but can be more difficult to deal with around the holiday season. The blog article below may offer you a few tips on how to keep going forward, and holding onto HOPE realizing that better treatments and drugs are in the pipeline: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/190/Its-okay-not-to-be-okay-with-NTMBronchiectasis-Overcoming-fear-related-to-being

It's okay not to be okay with NTM/Bronchiectasis: Overcoming fear related to being diagnosed and dealing with an ongoing chronic diagnosis

This blog post was authored by Katie Keating, RN, MS, and reviewed by the Bronchiectasis and NTM Content Review and Evaluation Committee Feelings of anxiety following a diagnosis of a chronic illness are normal. A diagnosis like bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease can bring shock, denial, anger, …

1 week ago

Hazzardjon

Hazzardjon

New to group.  Had a question if others had success / failures.  


I was cold plunging for 5 minutes a day for 4 months.  I had been reading up about benefits specifically boosted immune system.  During that time, no lung issues and I felt great.  Stopped for a week around thanksgiving, then had a flare up and was very sick for 3 weeks.  Could be a coincidence, or could be that I was getting an immune benifit from the plunge.  Normally get my flare ups between end of August - early November.  


Thoughts?  Any success stories?  Nervous to restart it, but I want to.


Thank you for your time.

1 week ago

  • Ksmiles123Hazzardjohn Hello! Welcome to the BNTM Community. I have never cold plunged- I had to read up on some of the possible benefits and risks which are listed in the article below: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-to-know-about-cold-plunges


    Flare ups in August maybe due to the higher humidity, and due to mold or other environmental factors in the fall months. Some of these factors are within our control. Winter flare ups are higher since people are indoors more. . There is a lot of information in the menu above on the right, including blog articles, podcasts, information sheets and more. 1 week ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Today marks the winter solstice, the shortest day and the longest night of the year. Winter officially begins today, and the days gradually begin to get longer:). Below are some uplifting quotes relevant to this time of year: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/80-uplifting-winter-solstice-quotes-120000644.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall

1 week ago

Happyjen

Happyjen

I habe had bronchiectasis caused by pneumonia/respitarory failure/ sepsis last March and looking for more  information than my pulmonologist was able to give me about dealing with small  changes in elevation causing me to need to use oxygen concentrater . I  live at sea level but travel by car occasionally to visit my grandkids at 4500 feet .  It took 2 days of oxygen a dew months ago to adjust to the elevation but still had chest pain and feeling ill. 

1 week ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments4 comment(s)
  • Ksmiles123Welcome to the community. No worry about the errors. I am sorry that you are not feeling well when you travel to visit your family. It takes time for one’s body to adapt to the change in altitude. Perhaps, a visit to your Pulmonologist prior to your trip is in order to check your pulse oximeter, lungs. There are meds for patients who have difficulty with higher elevation, such as Diamox but uncertain of the criteria for using it. We have assistance available for you in many forms. In addition to the community support you receive here on BronchiectasisandNTM360, you can call one of our Patient Ambassadors directly by phone at (833) 411-5864 which may be the best choice to discuss this specific topic. Our Ambassadors are real live patients with experiences similar to yours and understand what you are going through.  You can also email us at contactus@bronchandntm.org to get more information about changes in elevation and oxygen. Preparation is far better than dealing with such issues while traveling. 
    Our Ambassadors can’t provide medical advice but may be able to assist you with additional information and resources. 1 week ago
  • HappyjenThank you . What is a good time of day to call that phone number? Are they on eastern standard time ?2 days ago
  • Ksmiles123You can call either Eastern time  or Western Time. Someone will call you back within a day. 2 days ago
360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

As the holidays approach and decorations start going up, flu season is already off to a tough start. For those living with bronchiectasis or NTM, protecting your lungs during this time of year is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. 🎁

A few festive-season reminders to help keep you well:

Wash hands often (think of it as spreading cheer, not germs 😉)

Carry hand sanitizer when you’re out and about

Consider a mask in crowded indoor spaces

Keep a little extra distance from anyone who’s sick or heavily exposed

Stay up to date on vaccines recommended by your care team

Listen to your body and rest when it asks for it

And just as important—there’s no guilt in saying no. Skipping a gathering, choosing a smaller celebration, or leaving early is not missing the fun; it’s taking care of your breathing so you can enjoy more moments ahead. 🎄✨

This season, give yourself permission to put your health first. Your lungs deserve a little extra holiday care. 💙

1 week ago

Support

Support

New to group.  I am awaiting results of the NTM 2 v 3 study.  I read where data was collected in Oct. so ?
Has anyone tried to work a new job with the triple toxic treatment?  How did you fare?  
I have a job offer coming in today and freaking out since I meet ID for treatment proposal in 11 days.
Thanks for sharing your work situation on NTM treatment...also Ototoxicity with Amikacin...anyone experiencing?

1 week ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments6 comment(s)
  • Ksmiles123Support,
    Hello! I feel your frustrations- I have been there. More research is now being conducted on BNTM than ever before; itis challenging for us to wait the long period of time for drugs to be developed and approved. 
    You absolutely did the right thing by staying away from employment in buildings with mold. I experienced a mold issue and it sure wasn’t pleasant. 
    If the job can’t wait- then it up to you to take a chance or continue to look for a different part time job since your energy levels fluctuate. Only you know the answer to this question based on personal choice, financial situation, emergency funds, etc. Do consider calling the number above if you are interested in speaking with a patient ambassador. Hold onto HOPE that somehow things will work out. 1 week ago
  • SupportIn 2018 I had hemoptysis for 5 days and finally went to the hospital.  I had been working in a clinic with black/mildew for 4 weeks 4.5 days a week and the ER just did a chest X ray and basics.  I said I want a CT - I have bronchiectasis and want to rule out cancer...so they said to continue the treatment I had put myself on (I'm a provider)...I wonder if the past experiences and a fracture remediation 2 years ago brought about a cytokine storm to the point my body couldn't handle the normal environmental NTM because it has been about 15 months or so before I will be getting treated, and that is thanks to my persistence.  Job is to start Feb 23 or thereabouts...just got the offer and to serve our Veterans for Primary Care...I hope I can handle...will know more end of month of treatment plan.  1 week ago
  • Ksmiles123Mold issues can certainly impact your immune system, leading to higher chances of getting sicker. I am sure you are aware if all of this being a provider. However, I have been a nurse for a long time and I feel that when you are in the “ thick of a medical crisis “, we don’t always see the whole picture clearly.
    My doctor referred to my mold issue as an immune system attack, cytokines, etc.
    I am glad that you are persevering and continuing to ask for the assistance and diagnostic tests that you deserve and need.
    I am glad that you have some time to figure out the job situation since it doesn’t start until February 23rd.
    I wish you the best as you approach the end of the month and get a treatment plan in place. Please review materials in the menu above, blog articles, specific podcasts so you are fully prepared and empowered to discuss your treatment plan. One day at a time for now- I realize how overwhelming this experience can be. We are here for you. 1 week ago
Mari305

Mari305

Hi there Happy Holidays!
I’m about to try the new pill Brinsupri and I’m worried about side effects.

2 weeks ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

🎉 We’re on the road to 5,000! 🎉

Our Bronchiectasis & NTM 360social community is growing, and we’re getting closer to an exciting milestone — 5,000 members strong! Each new member brings shared experiences, encouragement, questions, wisdom, and support that make this space what it is.

This countdown isn’t just about a number. It’s about people showing up for one another, learning together, and reminding each other that no one has to navigate Bronchiectasis or NTM alone.

If you’ve been here since the early days or just joined recently — thank you for being part of this community. Let’s keep the conversations going, keep supporting one another, and count down together as we head toward 5,000 💙

Stay tuned… we’re getting close!

2 weeks ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Each season comes along with special treats and some challenges for respiratory patients.
Dry air within our homes can affect our health. Dry heat can cause: Dry, scratchy throat and eyes, nose bleeds, dry, itchy skin, asthma flares, respiratory problems, sinus & allergy issues, bronchitis, and dehydration. Humidifiers are not recommended for BNTM patients.  A few alternative tips:  Place water containers/bowls near your heating vents or radiators for a quick fix. When the heat warms the air, it also evaporates water into the air, adding moisture. Apply lotion to lock moisture into your skin. Do you have any suggestions on how you deal with dry heat throughout the winter months?

2 weeks ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments5 comment(s)
  • Ksmiles123Hello! We have assistance available for you in many forms. In addition to the community support you receive here on BronchiectasisandNTM360, you can call one of our Patient Ambassadors directly by phone at (833) 411-5864. Our Ambassadors are real live patients with experiences similar to yours and understand questions that you may have.  You can also email us at contactus@bronchandntm.org to get more information about home humidifiers. Our Ambassadors can’t provide medical advice but may be able to assist you with additional information and resources. 2 weeks ago
  • Ksmiles123Nasal washes are a good way to deal with dry nasal passages due to the dry heat of the winter. Below is information on nasal washes from the Cleveland Clinic. I recommend boiling water for 10 minutes (instead of 5 minutes mentioned in the article), let it sit and then use the nasal wash.https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24286-nasal-irrigation1 week ago
  • ChristinaHAlso, continue to drink water and hydrate from the inside out! 💦1 week ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Happy Hanukkah 🕎 to all who celebrate! I hope that you truly enjoy your holiday season. 

2 weeks ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

As we move into the holiday week, our hearts are holding many things at once. We’re sending warm wishes to our Jewish friends in the Bronch and NTM 360social community on the first night of Hanukkah, with hopes that the light brings comfort, peace, and renewed strength. We’re also deeply saddened by the violence in Australia and are keeping everyone affected, their loved ones, and the surrounding community in our thoughts. May this season remind us of compassion, connection, and hope for gentler days ahead. 💙

2 weeks ago

  • NewestOldest
  • Ksmiles123I do hope that the lighting of the candles brings comfort, peace and renewed strength to all in need at this challenging time.2 weeks ago
  • 360Coach Brandon As we come to the final night of Hanukkah, we find ourselves holding both light and heaviness in our hearts.

    This holiday week began with heartbreaking news from Australia, and that sadness has stayed with many of us as the candles were lit each evening. Moments like these remind us why the light of Hanukkah matters so much—not because it removes the darkness, but because it meets it with hope, resilience, and care for one another.

    As the last candle is lit tonight, we invite you to pause for just a moment. Take a slow, comfortable breath in… and gently let it out. No need to change anything—just a small moment to ground yourself in the present.

    We hold close those affected by violence, stand alongside communities who are grieving, and carry forward a shared hope for a safer, kinder year ahead.

    May the light of this season continue to guide us—toward compassion, understanding, and kindness in our words and actions. And may the year ahead bring moments of peace, connection, and healing for all.

    From all of us here at 360social, we wish you warmth, comfort, and hope as Hanukkah comes to a close. 🕯️💙1 week ago
  • Ksmiles123I am hoping and praying that kindness, greater compassion and understanding expand within the world beyond the final light of the season, into a brighter 2026! 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.

 
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