BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member Neens McCoughCough who joins 4,479 current members of our community. We’re glad you're here!

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon Hello Coffee Break Participants! 

A friendly reminder that we are canceling our May 14th Coffee Break as the NTMir Patient Conference in Berkeley, CA is being held the same week. The conference will have several in-depth presentations on all subjects related to bronchiectasis and NTM.

Patient/Caregiver/Family/Student Virtual Attendance Cost: $75
Industry Virtual Attendance Cost: $350

Virtual registration ends on May 12.
https://ntminfo.org/2025-ntm-bronchiectasis-conference/

To register, click on the link below: 

https://connect.ntminfo.org/events/event-description?CalendarEventKey=dfe51143-588c-43ff-84db-0194d239d073&Home=%2Fevents%2Fcalendar 


We look forward to seeing all of you again on June 11th at 3pm EDT for the June BNTM360social Coffee Break! 





2025 NTM & Bronchiectasis Conference

We’re excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 NTM & Bronchiectasis Patient Conference.

2 days ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa DittnerEncourage your health care provider to join the Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network

Tell your pulmonologist and infectious disease specialist about the Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network today!


Care Center Network centers provide high-quality, specialized care for patients with bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease to reduce the time it takes to get a diagnosis and help you access the expert care you need.


Please share this information with your care team and help us make sure everyone has access to the best possible care. Applications are open March 17 through June 1!


https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Find-Care/Care-Center-Network/General-Information

1 month ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon 💙 It’s Nurse’s Week, and we just want to say a big THANK YOU to all the amazing nurses out there!

From offering comfort on the hard days to helping us breathe a little easier (literally and emotionally), you are the heart of healthcare. We see the difference you make, and we’re so grateful for the care, kindness, and humor you bring to the table.

1 hour ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Do you use ice made automatically by your refrigerator?

Don’t D rink Water or Use Ice from a R efrigerator. Many refrigerators come with outside taps for chilled water and ice. Don’t use them as h igh numbers of NTM are in refrigerator tap water and ice. In one instance, the DNA fingerprint of the …

1 hour ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittner created the event Empower Your Workout: Lung Health and Strength for Everyone

Join us on July 1 at 1 PM Eastern for a special event in honor of World Bronchiectasis Day! This engaging webinar will focus on exercise and movement, featuring a live virtual workout session. Discover easy ways to stay active and strengthen your lungs …

4 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Are you planning on staying at a summer home that hasn’t been occupied ?

The information below is taken from a paper, Reducing Environmental Exposure to NTM, by Joseph Falkinham, PhD, May 3rd, 2021 Flush and Run W ater in Unused Lines to Reduce Water A ge. Water age refers to the time water stays in pipes in houses. …

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Do you disinfect your showerhead?

It is recommended that you unscrew the showerhead and submerge it in undiluted bleach for 30 minutes. Remove it from the bleach and rinse before screwing it back on the shower tap. It is also recommended to replace the showerhead with one that produces …

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Do you know which diagnostic tests are used to diagnose Aspergillosis?

The link below reviews the diagnostic tests used to determine whether or not a patient has an Aspergillosis infection: https://fightfungus.org/diagnostic-testing-aspergillosis/

3 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Aspergillosis is an infection caused by mold. The link below from the Mayo Clinic reviews the symptoms and treatment for Aspergillosis: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/aspergillosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369619

3 days ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa DittnerSpring can be challenging! Here is a blog with quick actionable tips to help you navigate this time of year. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/170/Preventing-Spring-Flare-ups-for-those-with-Bronchiectasis
Written by Christina Hunt

Preventing Spring Flare-ups for those with Bronchiectasis

This post was authored by Christina Hunt, BS, RRT. Those with bronchiectasis (a lung disease with enlarged airways that are thickened and/or scarred) frequently have a lot of mucus. If a person has normal lungs, they can clear the excess mucus. However, in bronchiectasis, the cilia (tiny hair …

4 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Allergies and asthma are different conditions but they can occur together. When allergies trigger asthma, it is called allergy-induced asthma allergic asthma. The link below differentiates the two different conditions and reviews the treatment options: https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/allergy-induced-asthma


Please post any specific questions you may have. 

5 days ago

marsrocket

marsrocketHave a relaxing easy breathing weekend, friends. (donuts are optional)

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Do you have asthma in addition to Bronchiectasis and or NTM?

I have intermittent asthma, resulting in an onset of wheezing, which often occurs with severe weather changes. The symptoms of asthma are often confused with a respiratory flare-up. The symptoms of asthma may lead one to be anxious, fearing that they are …

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Are you dealing with post nasal drip?

There are many causes of post nasal drip, including sinus infections and allergies. The link below reviews the basics of post nasal drip and the treatment options: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community …

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Happy May to all members! May is my favorite month- fairly stable temperatures, less rain, not humid, not too hot,  nor too cold; these conditions are good for respiratory patients.
Throughout the month we will cover the following topics: asthma, allergy triggers, sinus issues, and avoiding environmental exposure to NTM. We will review the role of the multitude of healthcare specialists who care for NTM specialists.Women’s Health week is celebrated throughout the week of May 11th- we will review of the importance of primary care visits, including mental health assessments. 

1 week ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittneranswered the question Are you currently dealing with additional stress?

Pursed lip breathing can help. It can have a calming effect on both the body and mind, making it an effective tool for managing stress and anxiety. By slowing down your breathing and enhancing oxygen exchange, this method helps to activate the body's …

1 week ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittner created the event NTMir 2025 NTM and Bronchiectasis Patient Conference

NTM Info & Research is hosting an NTM and Bronchiectasis Patient Conference May 14-15. Patients have the option to attend virtually and in-person. Learn from experts in pulmonology, infectious disease, respiratory therapy, lifestyle support and …

1 week ago

TrayB63

TrayB63

I have bronchiectasis with pseudomonas recurrent for the past 4 months I've had a bronchoscope with lavage my lungs and nose is filled with pseudomonas iam also a cf carrier and i have alow igG count which iam going to an immunologists on Friday to discuss cvid. Iam a mess but God loves me 

1 week ago

  • NewestOldest
  • 360Coach Brandon Hi TrayB63​, welcome to our community - we're glad you're here!

    We have assistance available for you in many forms. In addition to the community support you receive here on BronchandNTM360social, you can call one of our Patient Ambassadors directly toll-free at (833) 411-5864. Our Ambassadors are patients and caregivers 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.
    1 week ago
  • Ksmiles123Tray,
    Hello! I feel your frustration but I am so glad that you have your faith to hold onto throughout this challenging time.
    Your doctor’s appointment is only a few days away- there are antibiotic treatment options available for pseudomonas that your doctor will review with you. I had pseudomonas, was treated with Tobramycin and got to the other side of the challenge. Please update us after your doctor’s appointment.  One day at a time. 1 week ago
  • Alyssa Dittner"The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." - Psalm 18:2 (ESV)1 week ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Ongoing stress can take a toll on our physical and emotional health. Individuals who are dealing with stress may have many different ways of managing their stress. Journaling, walking, music, nature, speaking with friends or family are some of my coping strategies. What are your most effective ways to deal with stress in your daily life? 
Below is an article on the Basics of Stress: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/mental-health/building-habits-for-healthy-stress-management/

Building Healthy Stress Management Techniques - Mayo Clinic Press

Learn why stress management is essential for your well-being and success. Learn how to build healthy stress management techniques.

1 week ago

Dennis MCP

Dennis MCP

I’d like to send out a group question. What is the research and review show regarding using a UV filter for the incoming water on a whole house installation? Thank you in advance for any help.

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Are you currently dealing with additional stress?

Stress and strong emotions can present with respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath and rapid breathing, as the airway between the nose and the lungs constricts. For people without respiratory disease, this is generally not a problem as the …

1 week ago

BeClearwithBronchiectasis

BeClearwithBronchiectasis

Many of us have been following the development of brensocatib for years, from the Phase 2 WILLOW trial to the Phase 3 ASPEN trial. Although the results were shared publicly last year and discussed extensively at the Bronchiectasis World Conference in Dundee, Scotland, the findings have now been formally published in The New England Journal of Medicine, one of the most prestigious medical journals in the world.


I knew the article was coming, as I’ve heard Dr. Chuck Daley reference it multiple times. How exciting — for him, for the bronchiectasis community, and for all of us living with the heavy burden of this disease and desperately needing relief.


So, as I always say, let’s continue to stay the course: keep our weight in a healthy zone, eat nutrient-dense foods, do our airway clearance, exercise, control GERD, and just as importantly, try to have faith and relax — knowing that help is on the way!


Happy weekend,
Linda Esposito

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Have you been using the NTM Lung Disease Management Tool?

This tool assists you to identify, track your symptoms so you are able to communicate more effectively with your health care provider. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/DownloadsLibrary/Files/NTM_Management_Tool.pdf Please let us …

1 week ago

Chinook

Chinook

I failed to write down the auto generated password when I joined today. I'd like to change my password to one I can remember, but need to enter the auto generated password in order to change.  Can someone help me make a change?

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Are you using the Bronchiectasis Action Plan Tool?

The link to the Bronchiectasis Action Plan tool may assist you in tracking your symptoms and communicating effectively with your health care provider. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/DownloadsLibrary/Files/ActionPlanEnglish.pdf

1 week ago

sj702

sj702

Hi all 


I have had bronchiectasis for several years now at least - possibly 5 years. I just finished with a case of multi focal pneumonia.  I use Albuterol and saline nebs with my best therapy at least twice a day, along with inhalers and singular for asthma and now my pulmonologist wants  to start azithromycin therapy.  


It really scares me to be on antibiotics long term.  I worry about antibiotic resistance. I worry about a lot of things! 😐


Has anybody had good results with azithromycin therapy? Can you ever stop it? 


Thanks- 🙏🏽 

2 weeks ago

  • NewestOldest
  • das23Hi sj702.....I understand your concern. I haven't been on azithromycin therapy but I've had to use antibiotics several times over the last several years and it concerns me. Trust that your doctor feels this is good for you. Good luck!!  My pulmo mentioned azithromycin therapy to as an option last year but we got things under control with nebulizing and airway clearance. My bronchiectasis is mild.--My primary condition is COPD. --Again--Good luck2 weeks ago
  • Ksmiles123SJ,
    Hello! 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 what you are going through.  Our Ambassadors can’t provide medical advice but may be able to assist you with additional information and resources about Azithromycin , long term antibiotics , antibiotic resistance and Bronchiectasis.2 weeks ago
Spirit923

Spirit923

Good- I was recently diagnosed with BE. I am waiting to have a CT scan in May to see the extent of it. I was hospitalized in mid January this year with pneumonia in all 5 lobes of my lungs.  My lungs were too cloudy to see anything in them. However,  when I went to a different doctor to continue to try and figure out my rapid weight loss (pre hospitalization),he heard a lot of ‘crunching’ in my lungs so he sent me for a CT scan. Bronchietstasis was evident in both lower lobes but the other lobes were still too cloudy from my extensive pneumonia. 
Whew! I am still surprised by my diagnosis and I am praying the other lobes do not have it. 

2 weeks ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Are you taking Clarithromycin?

Common side effects include a metallic taste and an upset stomach . The link below goes into greater details about this drug: https://www.drugs.com/clarithromycin.html Please let us know if you have any questions.

2 weeks ago

Bahir

Bahir

Hi everyone, I just joined the forum & am learning how to maneuver.  I have had MAC & bronchitis since 2017.  I have been under the care of the MAC center UT Tyler.  I have undergone treatment once & am due to see a new doctor at the center next Tuesday, which, since my sputum culture came back 3+, I’m sure I will have to go back on meds.  I have a question that I’m not sure if it has been addressed or not.  I came down over 2 weeks with Covid for the 2nd time.  The symptoms were not bad, but for the last 3 days I have woke up coughing & it lasts for about 30 minutes.  I feel better once I have coffee.  Has anyone experienced anything similar?  Thanks so much!

2 weeks 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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