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HAPPY NEW YEAR Everyone. Thanks for being here✌

All of us at the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association wish you a happy and healthy New Year! May 2026 bring you much joy and well-being. 

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To all Bronchiectasis and NTM patients and their families:
Wishing you a 2026 filled with resilience, progress, and the comfort of knowing you’re not alone.
Wishing everyone a strong and hopeful 2026. May you have compassionate care and moments
of joy and peace throughout the year. 
Throughout January, we will be focusing on goal setting for BNTM individuals and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Support, either online or in person, goes a long way when one is dealing with a chronic disorder. We are here for you.

To all Bronchiectasis and NTM patients and their families:
wishing you a 2026 filled with resilience, progress, and the comfort of knowing
you’re not alone.

Wishing everyone a strong
and hopeful 2026. May you have compassionate care and moments
of joy throughout the year. We are here for you.

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? 

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?

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. 

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. 💙

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

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?

😎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.

❄ 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.

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. 

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. 

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

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Merry Christmas to all members who celebrate the holiday. 

Wishing you peace, health and warmth this holiday season! 

Merry Christmas to All🎄✌

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! 💙 

Merry 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. 

Happy 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. 

💥 ✨ 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!  ✨ 💥

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!

Dealing 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

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.

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

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. 

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. 💙

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?

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

🎉 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!

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?

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

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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. 💙

I am extremely fatigued a week in on IV antibiotics. I feel much better in terms of my infection but I can’t believe how tired I am.  Have others had this experience? I feel like I could sleep all day and all night! My assumption is it is related to my body fighting the infection and not the medication itself.

Hello! Snow ❄ is hitting many parts of the northeast. The snow can be beautiful to look at, but the extreme cold air can make things challenging for those with chronic lung conditions. The cold air can cause bronchospasms and make breathing more difficult for some people. The wisest thing you can do to protect yourself in cold weather is to be prepared, whether that's having an inhaler regimen for a few days in case of an emergency or having a portable, charged-up, or battery-operated nebulizer as needed. If you have to go outside, breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Your nose does a better job of warming the air than your mouth. Wear a scarf to wrap around your nose and mouth. Avoid exercising outdoors. Get someone to assist you with snow removal if possible. Breathing heavier during any type of exercise in cold weather can increase symptoms of asthma or chronic lung conditions. Let us know if you have any questions.

Hello! Snow ❄ is hitting many parts of the northeast. The snow can be beautiful to look at but the extreme cold air can but the cold can make things challenging for those with chronic lung conditions . The cold air can cause bronchospasms making breathing more difficult for some people. The wisest thing that you can do to protect yourself in the cold weather is to be prepared, whether that's having an inhaler regiment for a few days in case of an emergency or having a portable charged up or battery operated nebulizer if needed. If  you have to outside, breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth.Your nose does a better job at warming the air than your mouth.Wear a scarf to wrap around your nose and  mouth. Avoid exercising outdoors. Get someone to assist you with snow removal if possible. Breathing heavier during exercise in cold weather can increase symptoms of asthma, or chronic lung conditions. 

Hello! The holidays are around the corner. Many of us tend to overeat throughout the holiday season. It is important to be mindful of your eating habits if you have acid reflux. Below is a you tube video, featuring Dr. Gwen Huitt , reviewing the basics of acid reflux . Let us know if you have any questions. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=lf_hSgJ21BY

Hello! Preventative measures are far easier to deal with than curative measures.  Airway clearance is most important at this time of the year than other seasons. Below is an infographic on avoiding pneumonia: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/DownloadsLibrary/Files/StayingHealthyPneumonia.pdf

I want to take a moment to recognize Katie and the incredible support she brings as an Ambassador for our Bronchiectasis and NTM 360social community. She’s such a valuable resource, and we’re fortunate to have her right here on the site when questions come up or when someone needs a little extra insight or reassurance.

If there’s something you’d prefer to ask more privately, Katie is always open to connecting one-on-one. You can reach out through private message here on the platform, or email her directly if that feels easier.

We’re so grateful for everything she does to help our community feel informed, supported, and never alone. Thank you, Katie, for all the heart you bring to this space. 💛

The snow is finally melting in Richmond, VA! What does it look like out your window? Anyone want to escape to the tropics? 🏝️😎🌞

Happy December, Bronchiectasis & NTM 360social!

We’ve made it to the season of sparkly lights, warm drinks, and trying to remember where we put the good blanket. Even with winter settling in, this is a great time to celebrate everything we can do -- at our pace, in our way, and with plenty of support along the journey.

Living with bronchiectasis or NTM means we’re often pros at planning ahead and juggling routines, but look at the wins we keep stacking up:
🎄 Still navigating the colder air like seasoned winter strategists
🎁 Still showing up for each other with kindness, humor, and “you’ve-got-this” energy
⛄ Still finding ways to make December feel bright -- airways, clearance, and all

And let’s admit it: this community has mastered the art of celebrating the small victories:
✨ Got through airway clearance today? That absolutely counts as holiday magic
✨ Wrapped a gift without losing the scissors? Champion behavior
✨ Chose rest before stress? You’re basically running a masterclass
✨ Found a moment to breathe a bit easier? That’s the best gift of the season

December isn’t about what we can’t do -- it’s about honoring what we manage every day and finding joy in the little things we can do, even on tougher days.

Here’s to a month filled with gentle laughs, warm connections, brighter-breathing days, and minimal run-ins with rogue tinsel! 💙🎄😄

😁

Good afternoon every one. The 3×s a wk is still better than before however still antibiotic overload on some days. But im not a very big person so i guess is it what it is. The Dr added 2 more monrhs of antibiotics due to the lack of progress when i was vomiting. It's effecting my vision on some days. And he also brought up surgery if I  keep collecting the adverse reactions.  2 more months sounds better.  I'm mentally & physically exhuasted , constant struggle to get through the day . But I'm doing it. Hope the holidays are good to everyone.  And remember...Chin Up !

How are you feeling with the colder weather? Some of us with the additional diagnosis of Asthma may need to use our inhalers more frequently. Cold air , winds can cause bronchospasms in some individuals. It is best to wear a scarf 🧣 and to carry your inhaler with you when you are out and about. 

Are you looking for something interesting to watch? The Lung Health Collaborative Virtual Assembly was recently held. Below are some great you tube presentations of great speakers and relevant content: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY1u8Ny9CYw1jJwLExOU1GqH-hjdipLHM