BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member Jsn who joins 5,210 current members of our community. We’re glad you're here!

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon Hello everyone! 

Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break is Thursday, May 07, 2026 @ 2:30pm EST. We moved the May Coffee Break up a week so it wouldn’t conflict with the NTMir Patient Conference May 13-14.

Dr. Shelby MacRae, MD, Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine- Pulmonary/Critical Care at the LSUHSC School of Medicine, returns this month to discuss effective communication with your doctors and when to escalate care. https://www.medschool.lsuhsc.edu/DOM/Sections/Pulmonary-CC/faculty/shelby_macrae.aspx

We will open the call fifteen minutes early, so please join us if you wish to speak casually with us or other community members. Any health-related discussion will be held until the start of the meeting.

The meeting registration link is here:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZclcuusrDMpG9PrF3BDUA2nw2csTkQsg7EG#/registration 

Looking forward to seeing you soon!

13 hours ago

  • Suepink1I'll be somewhere in the USA, hopefully not still in the queue, so hopefully will be able to join in.  I'm fortunate enough to be going to the NTMir Patient Conference 😄 Trying to pack a lightweight suitcase, hmmm, a bit of a mission6 hours ago
360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

🎤 Honesty Day… and a little real talk for our BNTM community

With bronchiectasis or NTM, things don’t always show up the same way every day. Some days feel manageable… and others can sneak up on you.

And if we’re being honest?

Sometimes it’s easier to say “I’m fine” than to explain everything that’s really going on.

But today’s a good day to try something different.

💬 Being honest with your care team
➡ “My cough has been more frequent.”
➡ “I’m more fatigued than usual.”
➡ “This flare feels different than the last one.”

💬 Being honest with your routine
➡ “I’ve been skipping airway clearance—I need to get back on track.”
➡ “I’m feeling overwhelmed with treatments today.”

💬 Being honest with the people around you
➡ “I need to slow things down today.”
➡ “I want to be there, but I may need to step away and rest.”

💬 And maybe the toughest one… being honest with yourself
➡ “This is a hard day.”
➡ “I’m doing the best I can—and that counts.”

Honesty doesn’t mean you’re falling behind—it means you’re paying attention. And with BNTM, that awareness can make a real difference in how you manage symptoms and care for yourself.

💬 Let’s hear from you:
What’s something you’ve learned to be more honest about on your journey with bronchiectasis or NTM?

20 hours ago

  • NewestOldest
  • Ksmiles123Brandon,
    Great post! Honesty within ourselves is self care. I often deny the need to rest and keep on pushing through at times when I really should not be doing so . It can be challenging when my mind wants to do so much more than my body is able to do at that point in time.Communicating effectively and without major guilt to family , friends and colleagues is practicing good self care. Thank you again for a great post. 19 hours ago
  • KayPNWYes, great post! I have learned that when I have a bad coughing fit it wears me out for the rest of the day, so I give myself permission to cancel my plans. It's hard to cancel plans, but when I'm honest with myself about how this condition can affect my physical and emotional well-being, I feel relieved to excuse myself and stay home and rest and recover.18 hours ago
  • Ksmiles123KayPNW,
    You are doing the right thing by listening to your body. It took me a while to accept that it is okay to cancel plans- some people understand, some do not. You learn who your true friends are over time.  I don't enjoy special events if I am tired- I can physically be present, but I do not get anything out of the event personally.18 hours ago
Jsn

Jsn

I was also wondering does anyone cough a lot when talking this is affecting my social life

1 hour ago

Jsn

Jsn

Not good I was wondering I have lots of sinus post nasal drip which makes me cough died Antonella’s have these issues

1 hour ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittner created the event From Flare-Ups to Daily Life: Bronchiectasis Symptom Management

Join the bronchiectasis team at University of Alabama at Birmingham, led by Center Director George M. Solomon, MD, on July 1 at 2:00 PM ET for a virtual event on managing bronchiectasis symptoms, from flare-ups (exacerbations) to day-to-day life. After …

13 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Dear Friend of the COPD Foundation, 
Looking for an easy way to support the COPD Foundation? Donating your vehicle is a straightforward process designed to make giving simple and stress-free: Start your donation online or by phone - Complete a secure form or speak with a vehicle donor support representative. Schedule your free vehicle pick-up - Your vehicle is picked up at a time that works for you - at no cost. Receive your donation receipt - Once your vehicle is sold, you'll receive documentation for your tax records. Cars, trucks, RVs, boats, motorcycles, and more are accepted - whether they're running or not. Your vehicle donation helps support the programs and services that power our mission. Start Your Vehicle Donation. 
Thank you for making a difference in every breath. 
Warm regards, Jean Wright, M.D., MBA, CEO. 

18 hours ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittner created the event Nutrition & Bronchiectasis

Join us in honor of World Bronchiectasis Day for an engaging webinar, Nutrition & Bronchiectasis, on Wednesday, July 1 at 3:30 PM Eastern , featuring nutrition expert Michelle MacDonald, MS, RDN, CDCES. This session will focus on the unique …

19 hours ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittner created the event Bronchiectasis Management: From Guidelines to Patient Care

Join us for a live webinar on July 1 at 12pm ET in celebration of World Bronchiectasis Day, led by Timothy R. Aksamit, MD, Medical Director of the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. This session will review the new Bronchiectasis Pathway Pocket Guide, …

19 hours ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittner created the event Bronchiectasis Management: From Guidelines to Patient Care

Join us for a live webinar on June 9 at 12pm ET in celebration of World Bronchiectasis Day, led by Timothy R. Aksamit, MD, Medical Director of the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. This session will review the new Bronchiectasis Pathway Pocket Guide, …

19 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question Do you feel that you are following sleep suggestions and you are still unable to sleep?

Alyssa, An important point on alcohol. Many individuals enjoy a glass of wine 🍷 in the late evening- Wine can impact the quality of one’s sleep and trigger reflux. It is better to consume a glass of wine earlier in the day if this is possible and fits …
Alyssa Dittneransi243 also answered the question Alyssa Dittnerand 1 other also answered the question

1 day ago

Alyssa Dittner

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

Welcome, Wajo23! You are in the right place for education and community. I know several people have already shared some of our resources, but if you are looking for a way to hear from both experts and people living with bronchiectasis, I also recommend …
ChristinaHKsmiles123 also answered the question ChristinaHand 1 other also answered the question

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! The Bronchiectasis Information Sheet below includes the
goals of bronchiectasis treatment, medications, lifestyle changes, and more.
You can share this sheet with your healthcare providers who may not be informed
about your care. Please let us know if you have any questions. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#TreatmentBronch

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.

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question Brinsupri Results

below is a link on frequently asked questions about Brinsupri https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/DownloadsLibrary/Files/Brinsupri_FAQ.pdf
PatsyRCountryviolet also answered the question PatsyRand 1 other also answered the question

2 days ago

Kalli Mago (Communications Coordinator)

Kalli Mago (Communications Coordinator)Your work environment can have a big impact on your lung health, especially when you have chronic lung disease.

Common risks include exposure to:
💨Airborne irritants such as dust, fumes, mold, or chemicals that can irritate your airway and cause lung damage over time.
🦠 Bacteria and viruses that can cause respiratory infections.
❄Cold or damp air, which can contribute to more frequent exacerbations.

These risks can affect people in many different types of jobs. For example, construction workers, firefighters, hairstylists, and house cleaners may all face exposure to airborne irritants. Meanwhile, teachers, health care workers, and those in other professions involving close contact with others often face increased risk of illness.

To protect your lungs at work, keep these tips in mind:
✨Wear protective gear as appropriate.
✨Get vaccinated to reduce the risk of illness.
✨Ask your employer for accommodations as needed.

Has your workplace ever impacted your lung health? Share additional tips to protect your lungs and your overall well-being in the comments!

2 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

ER or Urgent Care with Bronchiectasis & NTM—What to Know.
There are times when going to the ER or urgent care is the right call with
bronchiectasis or NTM. A little preparation can help you protect yourself and
get more personalized care. Things to keep in mind:• Exposure to infections –
These settings often include people with respiratory illnesses, increasing the
risk of flare-ups or secondary infections.• Limited familiarity with BNTM – Not
all providers specialize in bronchiectasis or NTM. Baseline symptoms (like
chronic cough) may be misunderstood, and exacerbations can be missed.•
Antibiotic use – “Just in case” antibiotics may not always be the best fit.
They can disrupt your microbiome, promote resistance, and impact future treatment
options.• Lack of continuity – ER care is often one-time. Your history,
cultures, and past responses may not be fully considered.• Environment matters
– Dry air, long waits, and stress can worsen symptoms.

When to go (don’t wait):

Significant shortness of breath, chest pain, more than small
streaks of blood, high fever with worsening symptoms, or dropping oxygen
levels. How to prepare: Bring a simple BNTM info card with: Diagnosis
(bronchiectasis + NTM type if known), Medications, Antibiotics that
have/haven’t worked, Specialist contact info. You can also bring your Action
Plan or Management Tool from the Bronchiectasis and NTM Initiative. Helpful
tips: Wear an N95/KN95. Ask for a less crowded waiting area if possible. Stay
hydrated. Advocate for targeted antibiotics. A few proactive steps can make a
big difference—helping you stay a step ahead instead of reacting to a flare.💬
What has helped you feel more prepared during an ER or urgent care visit?

3 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Today is Alpha-1 Awareness Day in Europe - this day is dedicated to learn more about alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (#AATD) and raise awareness of this rare lung condition.

Understanding Alpha-1 is an important step towards earlier diagnosis, better care and support for affected individuals.

5 days ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

We made it to Friday! 🙌😄

Weekend mode is officially within reach… and however you spend it, make it yours. Maybe it’s a short stroll, a favorite show on repeat (we all have one 😄), time with family, or settling into your go-to cozy spot.

For our bronchiectasis & NTM crew, weekends can still come with their routines—airway clearance, meds, and pacing things out—but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for those “feel good” moments along the way.

A few friendly reminders as you head into the weekend:
💧 Stay hydrated
🫁 Keep up with airway clearance (future you will thank you!)
💊 Keep those meds on track
⏸️ And give yourself permission to pause when your body asks for it

Because the best weekends aren’t about doing everything—they’re about doing what works for you and keeps things feeling steady.

Wishing you a weekend full of comfort, a few bright moments, and maybe even a little extra ease in your breathing. 🌿

💬 What’s your weekend plan… sticking with your routine, sneaking in something fun, or a little bit of both?

6 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Below is a link for the NTM Management Tool- this tool will assist you on your NTM Journey. This management tool lists the education, tools, and resources that will assist you in living well with NTM lung disease. Tools and techniques include regular airway clearance, medications, and more. The tool reviews the basics of NTM management and helps you track symptoms so you are better prepared for your visit with your healthcare provider. Lastly, the tool reviews treatment expectations, goal setting, and provides links for support. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/DownloadsLibrary/Files/NTM_Management_Tool.pdf

6 days ago

Darla

Darla

I'm quite happy to find this group. I was diagnosed with NTM in 2019. Treated for 18 months and also treated for relapse in 2023. In December 2015 I was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis. Since that time, I believe I have had two, what I believe to be, flares, but need some symptom clarification.  Specifically, I had horrible coughing, mucus production, fatigue and fever and extreme chills. However, I also had terrible body/muscle pain and headache, and it never crossed my mind that it could be a flare. I thought I had Influenza.  All these symptoms occurred once again.  They were severe enough that my husband wanted me to go to the ER.  Do others with this disease have the additional symptoms? 

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Have you recently had an appointment with a healthcare provider who did not understand the basics of bronchiectasis treatment? I get tired of explaining bronchiectasis symptoms and treatments to healthcare providers, whether they are direct healthcare professionals, physical therapists, dietitians, or any other provider. Below is a basic treatment flyer on bronchiectasis that you can share, as needed, with a healthcare provider.
 https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/Files/WBD/WBD_Treatment_Flyer_WEB.pdf

1 week ago

  • NewestOldest
  • ChristinaHThis is great information, Katie. I also wanted to suggest to the community that it is important to see providers who are well-versed in bronchiectasis and NTM. If you are patient and feel as though you may need expert care, don't be afraid to get a second opinion and visit one of our centers in the Care Center Network. 2 days ago
  • Alyssa DittnerMake sure to help us celebrate World Bronchiectasis Day! Awareness is key. The louder we are and the more splashes we make, the more attention we can draw to bronchiectasis and help educate those who are not yet informed.


    If you are interested in sharing your story, please reach out to me at alyssa@bronchandNTM.org. We have a simple way to amplify your voice using an app. 


    P.S. Did you know it is estimated that it takes about 17 years for strong clinical research evidence to become routine practice at the bedside? Even when new research comes out, we still need to keep sharing and speaking up!1 day ago
  • Ksmiles123I do hope that you will think about sharing your story. Greater public awareness of how you are impacted on a daily basis increases the chances of getting more funds for research. 1 day ago
Jame

Jame

thank you I am looking forward in being a part of this

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

1 week 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









1 week ago

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.

1 week 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.1 week 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.

1 week 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 💛

1 week 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.

1 week 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

1 week ago

ej

ej

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

1 week ago

  • NewestOldest
  • 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? 1 week ago
  • ChristinaHThe amount of mucus that is produced can vary often from month to month. I recommend that when you are more productive that you increase the frequency of your airway clearance routine until you feel the mucus is under control. Continuing to take time throughout the day for good "coughing sessions" (including being active) can also help you manage the sputum a bit.2 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 …

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.

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