BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member Jane M. who joins 4,803 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

๐Ÿ”ฅโœจ Circle up around the campfireโ€ฆ

As the nights get cooler and flu season approaches, thereโ€™s one thing that can help keep our whole circle stronger: vaccinations.

For those living with bronchiectasis or NTM, vaccines like the flu, pneumonia, COVID-19, and RSV are extra layers of protection โ€” like adding logs to the fire so it doesnโ€™t burn out. They canโ€™t prevent every illness, but they can help lessen the risk of flare-ups, infections, or complications.

And caregivers โ€” youโ€™re just as important in this story. By keeping your vaccines up to date, youโ€™re helping guard the fire for everyone. Youโ€™re part of the shield that keeps sparks from turning into bigger flames.

So before flu season kicks in, check with your healthcare provider and make sure both you and your loved ones are covered. The more we work together, the brighter and steadier the fire glows!
 

2 days ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa DittnerNon-CF Bronchiectasis: Could a Clinical Trial Be Right for You?

If you're an adult diagnosed with non-cystic fibrosis (non-CF) bronchiectasis, you have an opportunity to join a research study to test a new investigational medication. For more information on this visit https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Research/Research/Actively-Recruiting-Ongoing-Studies

5 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question How much time does airway clearance take?

Jane, Hello! Welcome to the site. Any airway clearance is better than no airway clearance. You can use a hand held device, such as the Aerobica, do 3 sets of 10 that doesnโ€™t take too much time out of your day. Below is information on the airway …

8 hours ago

Jane M.

Jane M.asked the question: How much time does airway clearance take?

I found out that I have bronchiectasis and probable NTM last December, and my pulmonologist recommended just watching it for a while. I had a follow-up CT in June and then a bronchoscopy in July because I have never produced any sputum. One of the …

9 hours ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

Wishing all our BronchandNTM360 friends a safe and easier-breathing holiday weekend! ๐Ÿ’™

If youโ€™re grilling, let the food be smokyโ€”not your lungs. ๐Ÿ”๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ’จ Protect your airways and keep the flavor on the plate where it belongs.

And with the weather doing its usual unpredictable thing, play it smart. If itโ€™s hot or muggy, give yourself permission to retreat indoors, grab the comfy spot on the couch, and call it airway management strategy. ๐Ÿ‘‘โ„


Hereโ€™s to staying safe, cool, and enjoying the weekend the best way you can!


1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! We are experiencing cooler temperatures, lower - ideal humidity and dew point levels; it is so much easier to breathe, function well under these conditions.
Are you noticing a difference in how you feel in comparison to how you were feeling during the recent heat wave?
I hope that you are able to get out and about, at least for a little while to enjoy the weather and the end of the summer season. :) 

2 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Healthcare workers are supposed to wash their hands between patients, as part of their infection control measures . We, as patients, must advocate for ourselves if we do not see a health care provider washing their hands before they examine us. Nosocomial infections is a term for infections acquired while in a hospital or healthcare facility. Below is a guideline for healthcare professionals on handwashing: https://www.careplans.com/articles/handwashing/

How to Wash Your Hands: A Guide for Healthcare Workers

Hand hygiene is a cornerstone of infection prevention and control in healthcare settings. Proper handwashing is one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of pathogens and protect clients, colleagues, and oneself. This guide outlines the steps for proper handwashing and highlights its …

3 days ago

Community Announcements

Community Announcementsadded a new article Four abstracts using Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry data presented at World Bronchiectasis Conference

Conference focused on bronchiectasis care and management

Miami (July 22, 2025) โ€“ The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association announced today that four abstracts using Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry data were presented at the World Bronchiectasis Conference, held July 14-17, 2025, in Brisbane, Australia.

4 days ago

Community Announcements

Community Announcementsadded a new article Bronchiectasis and NTM Association and 25 global partners unite for World Bronchiectasis Day

Fourth annual awareness event occurs July 1, 2025

MIAMI (June 26, 2025) โ€“ The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association joins 25 global patient advocacy organizations and professional societies to recognize the fourth annual World Bronchiectasis Day on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

4 days ago

Community Announcements

Community Announcementsadded a new article Thirty-three centers join new Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network

Network facilitates access to high-quality, specialized patient care for bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease

Miami (March 12, 2025) โ€“ The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association has accepted 27 Care Center and six Clinical Associate Center sites in 23 states and the District of Columbia into the new Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network (CCN).

4 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Below is the summary of recommendations , from the CDC for the control of respiratory viruses: https://www.cdc.gov/project-firstline/hcp/infection-control/index.html#cdc_infection_control_recomm-summary-of-recommendations
Please let us know if you have any questions. 

Infection Control Guidance: Respiratory Viruses

Infection control actions needed to protect patients, yourself, and your coworkers from the spread o

4 days ago

BeClearwithBronchiectasis

BeClearwithBronchiectasis

Big news in the bronchiectasis community! On August 12, the FDA approved BRINSUPRI, the first-ever treatment for non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. And there are similar drugs currently being developed and in trialโ€ผ
Join us on Thursday, August 28 for a special webinar with Dr. Anne Oโ€™Donnell, hosted by Running On Air and NTM Info & Research, to learn what this breakthrough means for patients and families.
This weekโ€” sign up nowโ€ผ(It will be recorded)
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/5717543156248/WN_hLJTREN3TaOWVPbAnYMIhw
PSโ€” People are receiving the drug!!

5 days ago

TimD

TimD created the event September 2025 BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break

Hello everyone! Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break will be Wednesday, September 10 , 202 5 @ 3pm EDT. On our upcoming Coffee Break, Dr. Mark Metersky , M.D., F.C.C.P., Professor of Medicine, Director, Center for Bronchiectasis …

5 days ago

Gina C

Gina C

Hi, thanks to all who make this resource possible. I was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis and MAC in 1/25, did only airway clearance for 8 months, and started on the big 3 after a repeat C-scan showed the MAC had proliferated. So far I havenโ€™t had much trouble with the ethambutol and azithromycin, which Iโ€™ve taking with dinner in the evening.  Iโ€™m thinking of continuing to take those 2 with dinner and add in the rifampin 3 hours later before bed. 
Iโ€™m wondering if anyone uses this method and if not, why not. What would be a better alternative? Thanks. 

6 days ago

BBopof4

BBopof4

Currently I have a collapsed middle right lobe. Doctor wants to do a scope to clean out the lobe and hopefully it will reinflate. 
Any suggestions?

6 days ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

๐ŸŒž Good morning, BronchandNTM360 crew! Hope you got a little chance to kick back and recharge before the week kicks in. Some places are finally getting a break from the heat (thank goodness!) -- hereโ€™s hoping it means easier breathing and a little more comfort.

Letโ€™s ease into the week with a smile -- it doesnโ€™t solve everything, but it sure helps make the days feel lighter. ๐Ÿ˜‰ Wishing you steady breaths, brighter moments, and a smoother week ahead. ๐Ÿ’™ 

6 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Do you feel equipped with the โ€œ languageโ€ of infection control? 
Below is an article on Infection Control Basics, including the โ€œ terms to knowโ€, from the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/about/index.html#cdc_disease_basics_risk-terms-to-know
Please let us know if you have any questions. 

Infection Control Basics

Infection control prevents or stops the spread of infections in healthcare settings.

6 days ago

JohnT

JohnTvoted on FDA Approves a New Medication for Bronchiectasis

Gave a thumbs up for a blog post!

6 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123commented onFDA Approves a New Medication for Bronchiectasis

 Lznil65,Welcome to the site. I am so glad to read that you are using preventative measures and that you have been in remission for two years. Below is information from Drugs.com on Brinsupri and dental health: Dental problems. Get regular dental...

1 week ago

Iznil65

Iznil65commented onFDA Approves a New Medication for Bronchiectasis

 Hello ,I am new here .I have had bronchiectasis since 2007 .I was struck down suddenly with NTM 3 years ago ,I was extremely ill for 3 months with weight loss ,extreme fatigue ,nausea ,food abhorrence ,fever ,rigors ,night sweats my gps treated me...

1 week ago

KateB2025

KateB2025

My 1st sputum sample came back negative. I will take the win. I personally don't think it was a great sample but I will take the win! 

1 week ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

๐Ÿ’™ Today, we just want to pause and say how grateful we are for this incredible community. Whether you share your story, jump into conversations, quietly stop by to read, or even watch from a distance without ever joining -- you are an important part of BronchandNTM360social!

Every visit, every post, and every bit of knowledge passed along helps someone live better and breathe a little easier. That ripple effect reaches beyond our members to family, friends, caregivers, and anyone looking to learn more about bronchiectasis and NTM.

So, thank you -- to our active members, our extended community, and even those who learn silently. You remind us every day why connection, support, and shared understanding matter so much. ๐ŸŒŸ

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Sepsis is the bodyโ€™s extreme response to an infection and can be life threatening. Below is an informational handout from the CDC on the basics of sepsis. Please review this and share with family and friends. Being aware of the symptoms gives one a head start in getting the right treatment as soon as possible: https://www.cdc.gov/sepsis/media/pdfs/Consumer-fact-sheet-protect-yourself-and-your-family-P.pdf

1 week ago

SusanStamm

SusanStamm

Hello Everyone, new to the group. 


Short background: I was diagnosed with BE in 2012 and until June of this year my diagnosis was "mild without complication."  Suddenly while traveling in June, got so sick and when returning home had chest X-ray and CT and seems to now be all through my lungs.  So far, no reason has been established. 


I do not yet feel I have fully recovered from what ever happened in June, Chronic cough, off and on pleurisy pain, etc.  Maybe these are just features of the diseases and something that will never go away? I just do not know enough to know what to expect. 


 I am booked for a river cruise in Sept and I am terrified of getting really sick again. If I could get a refund Id cancel.  I have purchased a portable nebulizer and plan to exercise daily using the stairs and body weight exercises. Just not sure how to get over the fear after my last travel experience. My new pulmonologist saw me in June but not to see him again until after my trip. He is not very responsive through the portal. It is easy to feel very alone in this thing. I am glad to find this community. 

1 week ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments6 comment(s)
  • marsrocketHuff coughing is part of two airway clearance techniques, autogenic drainage and active cycle breathing, and it's usually recommended that you huff cough after using an acapella or aerobika device. The idea is to loosen mucus so it's easier to clear, without causing irritation from excessive coughing. If you go on the river cruise I hope you have a blast. 1 week ago
  • Ksmiles123Susan,Hello! I know that you were diagnosed awhile ago but below is a link for questions to ask your health care provider: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/Newly-Diagnosed1 week ago
  • das23Welcome aboard Susan. The others have given you great advice. If you perform daily airway clearance and keep up the exercise you may start feeling good enough to go on your trip. Good luck. Glad you found us--You are NOT alone1 week ago
360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

๐ŸŽ‰ Happy Friday Jr. to all our friends on BronchandNTM360! Itโ€™s basically the weekendโ€™s warm-up actโ€”close enough to taste those weekend vibes, but just far enough to remind us weโ€™ve got one more day to go.

Hereโ€™s to easier breathing, a little less stress, and something that makes you smile today. ๐Ÿ’™
 

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Are you interested in learning more about Infection Control practices? Below is a handout from Ohio State Wexner Medical Center that reviews some common preventative measures: https://www.medschool.lsuhsc.edu/lungcancer/docs/infection%20prevention%20for%20people%20with%20lung%20conditions.pdf

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Handwashing is essential for all health care providers. Patients can take infection control preventative measures by handwashing after visiting a health care facility. As the old cliche goes, โ€œ An ounce of prevention is far greater than a pound of cure โ€œ. 

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Infection control practices became an everyday topic throughout the pandemic. It is important for respiratory patients to continue infection prevention strategies on an ongoing basis . A few tips for when you are visiting a medical facility:
Use antibacterial wipes before and after the clinic visit.
Use paper towels to push elevator buttons, open doors.
Wash your hands for at least 30 seconds-turn off water faucets with a paper towel. Pack some paper towels with you in case the restroom only has the hand dryer fan.
Wearing masks in the waiting room is optional- a personal choice. You donโ€™t know if someone is coughing due to a chronic, non contagious condition or if they have an active infection.
Preventative measures are so much better than the time and energy needed for curative measures. Let us know if you have any questions. 

1 week ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

Have you quit or are you trying to quit smoking, vaping, or both?

The COPD Foundation is working with the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review(ICER) to better understand how smoking and vaping affect daily life and what it's like to seek treatments to quit smoking. You can participate in this project either through a written feedback form or an interview with ICER. Results will be summarized anonymously in a report that will be used to support decisions on drug pricing, access, and affordability.

If you are interested in participating or learning more, please reach out to advocacy@copdfoundation.org
 

1 week ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

๐Ÿ”Ž Ever wonder where to start when it comes to Bronchiectasis and NTM? The Learn More section right here on our website is a great place to dig in. Itโ€™s like having a roadmap to help you find your way through the questions and challenges that come with these conditions.

A few sections worth exploring:

๐Ÿซ What is Bronchiectasis? / What is NTM? โ€“ clear explanations to help make sense of the medical jargon

๐Ÿ’จ Airway Clearance Techniques โ€“ practical how-toโ€™s for keeping airways clearer

๐Ÿ’Š Treatment & Medications โ€“ understanding the options your care team may talk about

๐Ÿงก Tips for Everyday Life โ€“ little adjustments that can make a big difference

๐Ÿ‘ฅ Caregiver Guidance โ€“ support for the people walking alongside you

All you need to do is click โ€œLearn Moreโ€ at the top of the page and youโ€™ll see the dropdown with these and other sections waiting for you.

Itโ€™s a helpful way to learn at your own pace, and a great tool to share with family or caregivers who want to better understand what youโ€™re going through.


Have you checked out any of these yet? Which one do you think we should spotlight more often here in the community?


1 week ago

  • Ksmiles123I feel that Caregiver Guidance is a very important topic that we need to expand on. Caregiver support is often made light of by many health care professionals who are caring for the patient but do not address any of the biopsychosocial needs of the caregiver. 
    If you are a caregiver, please let us know how we can assist you on your journey. You can contact us at 833-411-5864 or contactus@bronchandntm.org1 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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