BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member J Wong who joins 4,324 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa DittnerSurvey for family member still open! Help people understand your experience. 


While the impact of bronchiectasis on family members remains poorly understood, the BURDEN initiative is aiming to address this knowledge gap. Ask your spouse/partner or another relative supporting and living with you to take part in an online survey.
Visit https://bronchiectasis-burden.com/us/

1 day ago

Delia

Delia

Hi all, I am pleased to announce that Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is changing its name to the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association will operate as a DBA (doing business as) unit of the COPD Foundation. Over the course of the next several months, we will be rebranding our website from Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 to the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association, which will have a new logo, and color scheme. 


I am also excited to share that the new Bronchiectasis and NTM Association has expanded its medical and scientific leadership to include Dr. Doreen Addrizzo-Harris, who will oversee our clinical care delivery programs and Dr. Chuck Daley, who will oversee our research programs. Dr. Tim Aksamit will continue to serve as our Medical Director. Elisha Malanga will serve as Executive Director of the Association. Rest assured that our terrific bronchiectasis and NTM staff continues to be part of these exciting changes. We will also continue to work closely with NTMir and our other partner organizations. We are looking forward to this next era in bronchiectasis and NTM! Please reach out with any questions: delia@bronchandntm.org.

3 weeks ago

Dennis MCP

Dennis MCP

Good day my name is Dennis and I am a recent participant in this website. I suffer from a combination of asbestosis, MAC disease and bronchiectasis. It appears to be advancing and Iโ€™ve started a three antibiotic regiment a month ago, and I am about to start a regiment of Arikayce next week. Iโ€™ve had confusing information from my two pulmonologist and I am taking a journey to the Cleveland clinic in Weston Florida next week to meet with a specialist to see if I can get more consistent information. Any suggestions that Iโ€™m on the right path and how other people have coped with this combination of diseases would be appreciated
Thank you

1 hour ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123commented onThe Effects of Ultra-processed Foods Causing Hidden Hunger

 Alyssa,I love the termโ€ Hidden Hungerโ€. Unfortunately, too many people feel full from ultra processed foods, and unaware that they are nutritionally deficient until a health issue occurs. . ...

15 hours ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittneradded a new article The Effects of Ultra-processed Foods Causing Hidden Hunger

This blog post was authored by Alyssa Dittner, BS, RRT, and reviewed by the Bronchiectasis and NTM Content Review and Evaluation Committee.

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are whole foods that have been heavily changed. UPFs often include added ingredients like preservatives, extra sugar, and food coloring.1 These foods have become a large part of many peopleโ€™s diets. They are convenient and have a long shelf life.1 However, choosing UPFs can affect weight and overall health, leading to both underweight and overweight individuals experiencing malnutrition and hidden hunger.

15 hours ago

Ric

Ric

I have bin told I have Pseudomonas And i will need Tazocin ..  Which is given at hospital . 

16 hours ago

marsrocket

marsrocket

Did you know that people with bronchiectasis and/or NTM, and other lung diseases have higher rates of oral dysphagia--swallowing difficulties. According to a study presented at a conference last October, 47 percent of the bronchiectasis patients tested showed signs of dysphagia. If you are having swallowing or chewing issues talk to your doctor. They might order a non-invasive test called a modified barium swallow. Two links are below. Peace.

https://www.healio.com/news/pulmonology/20241015/over-45-of-patients-with-bronchiectasis-have-impaired-swallow-function

https://nyulangone.org/files/dysphagia-in-ntm-11-8-2017.pdf

16 hours ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittner

๐Ÿ˜Happy National Caregiver Day!


We want to take a moment to honor all the caregivers out there. Whether you are caring for your parents, a loved one, family member, or friends, you make a tremendous difference every day. Caregiving is about so much more than just physical care, and you may be "giving" care without even realizing it.


Emotional Support: You provide comfort and understanding, helping others feel less alone during difficult times.


A Listening Ear: Sometimes, all someone needs is a friend to listen to their worries and joys. You offer that supportive presence.


Advocacy: Being another set of ears in medical appointments can help ensure that concerns are communicated and understood.


Social Connection: You help maintain relationships by encouraging outings, phone calls, or even just sharing a meal together.


Daily Encouragement: Motivating your loved ones to pursue their interests or simply enjoy life is a key part of caregiving that fosters their well-being.

23 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Below is a booklet, created by the COPD Foundation and Village Medical on resources to support caregivers on the journey for those with COPD. http://www.villagemedical.com/hubfs/Documents/FINAL_COPD%20Caregiver%20Packet%20%2803.14.2024%29.pdf?fbclid=IwY2xjawIlcghleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHQonqrUcCNDuD-nDXu-4MOOgN05ioybvgMUbbHW5nAczgYjeceq_3dcI6g_aem_nbKS50Nk7-sh6I90FvHRkw

23 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Below is an article, from the Cleveland Clinic on Self Care for caregivers. Most of the focus is on caring for the elderly but the suggestions offered in the article can apply to any caregiver. Please take care of yourself as well, try to practice a firm of self care regularly: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/self-care-for-caregivers

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Are you are a caregiver? Do you have any specific questions that we may assist you with? Is there a particularly challenging task that you would like assistance with? We are here to provide support. 

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Today, 2/21 is National Caregivers Day. Below is information on the origin of this day and tips on how to express gratitude to caregivers: https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/national-caregivers-day/

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question Newer portable nebulizers

Herli! Below is a link from a recent 2025 review: https://www.bestproductsreviews.com/best-nebulizer?targetid=kwd-84388810861679:loc-190&matchtype=p&device=m&campaignid=530885819&creative=&adgroupid=1350202788089986&amp …

1 day ago

marsrocket

marsrocket

Sorry to learn of the passing of our friend Kandy from South Dakota. A big loss to the lung health community. A tribute, written by Brandon, is on the COPD 360 website. Blessings to her family. and loved ones 

1 day ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments5 comment(s)
  • marsrocketShe was a strong person who endured quite a lot. Posted positive and sometimes funny messages and images, even when she wasn't in top form. 1 day ago
  • Ksmiles123Kandy endured a lot, and kept on inspiring to keep on keeping on. Her good sense of humor that helped her through challenging times. 1 day ago
  • das23Thanks for posting this marsrocket. Kandy was the absolute best. I said Hi๐Ÿ‘‹ to her everyday over at COPD360social. She will be missed. Kandy helped many many folks with all kinds of lung issues. Thoughts and prayers for hey family and may she Rest In Peace---1 day ago
GG

GGasked the question: Newer portable nebulizers

Hi,, I will be traveling soon and want a recommendation for a portable nebulizer. My searches have brought up info from 7-8 years ago. Can anyone recommend a newer portable nebulizer? thanks

1 day ago

GG

GG

Portable nebulizer 

2 days ago

  • NewestOldest
  • marsrocketI've had good luck with Devilbiss Traveler, though the charge only lasts for 2 or 3 treatments. 1 day ago
  • das23I've had several portable mesh nebulizers The one I'm using now is called --AvexMed Portable Nebulizer--It runs on batteries or a USB cord. This is the best one I have used so far for delivering the medicine. The batteries do not last long so bring the USB cord and extra batteries--AA   This is not on Amazon so just google AvexMed....if you're interested. Good luck...and...It takes a couple of weeks for delivery. I also got a couple from Amazon--they worked OK just not as good as this one1 day ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Tomorrow is National Caregivers Day! The link below reviews the role of a caregiver and offers suggestions on how to show gratitude to caregivers tomorrow: https://caregiverdoc.com/national-caregivers-day/

2 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123asked the question: Have you read about the lung- gut connection?

More research is now being conducted on the relationship between our guts and chronic lung diseases; this research , the Gut / Lung Microbiome has really expanded over the past 9 years. Dysbiosis is the imbalance of good and bad bacteria within our guts …

3 days ago

Stevie

Stevie

My story goes like this. Ive had bronchiectasis for many years . In 2019 i developed some form of infection that was probably aspirgillious.  Took 6m to feel a little nirmal. Then i developed masses in lungs that i got treated for with all different antibiotics . Nonecworked. I walked back in begging fir help . Brinchoscope done . Trested with levequin. Wrong. Found . Found out 8 weeks later after growing out the bacteria. It was nocardia elegans/ veterano . 7 months on two meds together. Bactrim and augmentin. I got rid of it. Then 3 months later got mac chaelobae in the broth mucus.  Beat that. Then 3 m later mac avium complex . Now in 2021 a noduke developed that i had ct scans on and off . It kept griwing . I felt so sick fatigued . Pain in back left shoukder list weight . I begged to be seen . Another ct. Scan. My dr said it was benign . Watching it for 6m i said no . Rule out lung cancer now. I went directly to thorasic surgeon who said its malignant. Got it in stage one . Removed apical left upper lobe. Now ive been fighti g the mac avium and infection with a new 3 cm mass in lower left lung.  On feb 7th Treated with augmentin.  Go back on thec28th to try to determine on another ct scan what this is.  With all this going on. Ive now developed allergies to sulfa meds, cipro, levequin, etc.  Dontbthink id ever make itvthrough the Bug 3 meds for NTM.  Feel so frustrated. I look 100 % healthy. Still working strong at age 67. But i am finding it harder to keep my spirits positive. I try to work on lung capacity.  I try to get mucus out but cant. Do 7% sodium chloride. Through nebulizer . Stay active. . SCANS show ntm progressing. How long can you go living with this stuff growing if i cant treat it. I have gerd . The lung surgery made that much worse. Asking for any guidance.  

4 days ago

  • Ksmiles123Stevie,Hello! Welcome to the community. I am so sorry to read about your ongoing challenges. I feel your frustrations- dealing with ongoing NTM and other lung issues for years is exhausting emotionally as well as physically.  Many people have fears of starting the big 3 meds. 
    We have assistance available for you in many forms. In addition to the community support you will receive here on BronchiectasisandNTM360, you can call one of our Patient Ambassadors directly by phone atโ€ฏ(833) 411-5864. Our Ambassadors are real live patients with experiences similar to yours and understand what you are going through.โ€ฏ You can alsoโ€ฏemail us atโ€ฏinfo@bronchiectasisandntm360.orgโ€ฏto get more information aboutโ€ฏ.โ€ฏ Our Ambassadors canโ€™t provide medical advice but may be able to assist you with additional information and resources. We are here to support you. 4 days ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

4 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

5 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! It is important to know the signs and symptoms of cardiac issues. Both men and women experience chest discomfort during a heart attack. Women have a higher chance of developing symptoms that include pain that presents in different parts of the body , nausea and vomiting , shortness of breath, sweating and dizziness. The link below further reviews the differences in symptoms between men and women:https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/male-vs-female-heart-attack-symptoms

Male vs. female heart attack symptoms: Differences and more

A heart attack can present differently between males and females, including some symptoms such as pain presenting in different parts of the body. Learn more here.

5 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

5 days ago

marsrocket

marsrocketIf you are aching for sunshine due to the monster winter storm, here you go. Happy Sunday. 

5 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123An echocardiogram is a frequently ordered diagnostic test to check how blood flows throughout your โค . The link below describes the test in greater detail: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/echocardiogram/about/pac-20393856

Echocardiogram - Mayo Clinic

Find out more about this imaging test that uses sound waves to view the heart and heart valves.

6 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Have you had a physical check of your heart โค recently?  Certain medications, including some antibiotics may affect a persons heart rhythm or conductivity of the heart.  These abnormal rhythms need to monitored over time; some individuals will be placed on medications.  The link below , from the Mayo Clinic provides an overview of why an EKG is done. Follow up visits with a cardiologist and routine EKGs should be done at a certain age, especially when you have a family history of cardiac issues. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ekg/about/pac-20384983

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) - Mayo Clinic

This common test checks the heartbeat. It can help diagnose heart attacks and heart rhythm disorders such as AFib. Know when an ECG is done.

6 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Happy Valentineโ€™s, Galentineโ€™s, โ™ฅ Heartโ€™s Day to all members! May your heart feel the support of this community on this day. ๐Ÿ˜

1 week ago

HB Dee

HB Dee

Just found this site, I've been diagnosed with bronchiectasis and NTM. I have a doctor who isn't very familiar with MAC treatment. Is there a list online for referrals or should I call the office number? I'm in Orange County California but willing to travel if necessary. Thank you ๐Ÿ˜Š

1 week ago

marsrocket

marsrocketA recent study in Japan showed that for elderly patients with MAC, a macrolide plus ethambutol was as effective as a Big 3 treatment regimen, with fewer side effects. Pretty sure there are clinical trials underway in the USA and elsewhere looking at 2 pills vs 3 pills therapy. for all age groups. Peace!
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39920685/

Tolerability and efficacy of Mycobacterium avium complex pulmonary disease treatment in elderly patients - PubMed

The two-drug regimen of EB and macrolide without RFP may be a tolerable and effective treatment for elderly MAC-PD patients.

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Below is a great article on the Heart and Lung connection, written by Kristen Szymonik, BS,RRT, Assistant Director of Education for the COPD Foundation: https://www.copdfoundation.org/COPD360social/Community/Questions-and-Answers/Q-and-A-Did-you-know-that-your-heart-and-lungs-are-teammates.aspx

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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