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Hello! Below is a part of the recent presentation done by Dr. Doreen Adrizzio , from the recent North American BNTM conference. This summary of the conference highlights was sponsored by Running on Air and NTM Information and Research.
DPP-1 Inhibitors
There is a lot of interest in the new drugs that are targeting inflammation in Bronchiectasis, from the first FDA approved treatment to on going drug studies. Below are some links and information:
Phase 3 Trial of the DPP-1 Inhibitor Brensocatib in Bronchiectasis
Webinar - Dipeptidyl Peptidase 1 (DPP-1) Inhibitors for Bronchiectasis - Overview and Q &A
Starting to Recruit: The AIRTIVITY™ Study: A Study to Find Out Whether BI 1291583 Helps People With Bronchiectasis
Is anyone taking brinsupri i am afraid to take it because i take a lot of pill form herbs abd vitimins anyone else help kk
This week is National Influenza Vaccination Week. The link below will review the history of this week and the importance of the influenza vaccination: https://nationaltoday.com/national-influenza-vaccination-week/
Hello! Are you up to listening to a podcast? The podcast below, entitled Research Under Attack- Protecting NIH Funding, podcast # 19 will give you an update on research in lung disease: https://copdfoundation.podbean.com/
Hello everyone!
Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break is Wednesday, December 10, 2025 @ 2:30pm EST.
We will end the year with an open Questions and Answer session. Please plan to ask your questions during our discussion or email them to us in advance at contactus@bronchandntm.org. Alyssa Dittner BSRT, PDE, NTTS, our Assistant Director of Education and Community will share travel tips.
In celebration of the holiday season, please wear your ugly holiday sweater, fun holiday outfit, or your favorite holiday colors to add some spirit to the meeting!
Below are some helpful resources related to our discussion:
https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/177/Tips-for-the-Holidays-for-individuals-with-bronchiectasis-and-NTM
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!
Were you able to listen into the summary of the North American BNTM Conference, presented by Dr. Doreen Adrizzio? One of her key points was about getting pneumococcal antibody levels labs done. If the antibody levels are low, our healthcare providers may recommend a booster. A repeat lab test should be done after the booster to make sure that you have adequate protection. This is so important as we prepare for the upcoming winter months.
Question for our meeting: Does everyone with bronchiectasis in the USA get put on a Bronchiectasis Register? Or are some health services unaware there is such a thing?
Hi all! Happy December! I hope everyone is staying warm if you are like me and already buried in snow.⛄ Remember to take time for yourself during the holiday season. It's very easy to become overwhelmed, discouraged, and burnt out while juggling family, travel, shopping and dealing with the overall hustle and bustle all around. The holidays are full of the best times but also some of the hardest. Take that extra 5 minutes for yourself, smile at babies, brake for squirrels, and when feeling isolated remember you always have support here!
"Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see" -Mark Twain💌
Handwashing is one of the top measures to lessen the spread of infection, especially in a healthcare facility. A nosocomial infection is a term used when a patient gets an infection while in a healthcare setting. The link and infographic below reviews the basics of handwashing. It is important that you advocate for yourself and speak up if you notice that a healthcare professional is not washing their hands before examining you. Please let me know if you have any questions. https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/hand-hygiene-for-healthcare.html
Respiratory Drug Update: A new generic drug has been approved by the FDA, for the brand name of ProAir HRA
https://respiratory-therapy.com/products-treatment/pharmaceuticals/us-pharmaceuticals/fda-approves-albuterol-sulfate-inhalation-aerosol-amneal/?utm_term=RT%20Five%20Dec%202025&utm_campaign_type=newsletter&utm_hsid=346581813&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_f3hRmzTNxHT79mr3nM5XIo8qBPcln2Ev-e9-5pMDWqxteKaXNuM7dHeG4a6eWG3XtWkz-0vZx22r3wSKElXtb-koCMg&_hsmi=392856152&utm_source=newsletter
Hello December, BronchandNTM360social! ❄
I hope everyone is settling in as we head deeper into the cold months. This is a great time to take a quick look at the things that help keep you feeling your best—making sure medications are filled, keeping your usual supplies handy, and staying mindful of those early signs that an exacerbation might be trying to sneak in. A little preparation now can make these chilly days a lot smoother.
December also has a way of making us pause and look back on the year. We’ve had moments of change, moments of strength, and moments that reminded us just how important this community is. We’ve had to say goodbye to friends far too soon, and they remain close to our hearts. We’ve also welcomed new faces and leaned on the steady support of those who’ve been with us for years.
So as we settle into this month, let’s take care of ourselves, look out for each other, and keep sharing the support and kindness that make this space feel like home. Here’s to a gentle, grounded, hopeful December for all of us!💙🧡
Hello! Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break is Wednesday, December 10, 2025 @ 2:30pm EST.
We will end the year with an open Questions and Answer session. It would be great if we could have some questions submitted in advance of the coffee break.
Please plan to ask your questions during our discussion or email them to us at contactus@bronchandntm.org
Thank you! :)
Hello! When at the doctor’s office, it’s important to take measures that will reduce exposure to germs. Some examples are using a paper towel to turn off the bathroom faucet, using a tissue for the elevator buttons and door handles. Wearing a N95 mask is optional in most offices today, but I would recommend it in some healthcare settings. Below are some links to CDC resources on infection control measures: https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/about/index.html
Are you currently using telehealth? Below is a link to updates Federal policies related to telehealth: https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/telehealth-policy/telehealth-policy-updates
Welcome to the month of December!
I hope that the month is tolerable and not too burr for us. Get your scarves 🧣 out to cover your mouth and nose when you are out and about.
Throughout this month, we will review infection control measures to lessen the chances of getting respiratory infections. We will review environmental conditions that can impact our health in the winter months. We will discuss healthy communication with family and friends so that they understand our often invisible respiratory condition, at the times when you are feeling well or are not feeling well . Lastly, we will address holiday stressors that could impact our physical and emotional health. We desire to assist you in finding joy throughout the month. Let us know if you have any specific questions.
Hello! I hope that you had a lovely Thanksgiving holiday. Managing our personal energy throughout busy times of the year is challenging for many patients. Some individuals experience a greater level of fatigue when they push themselves too much, other patients do not feel a high level of fatigue. Below is an article I wrote years ago on tips for energy management that I thought it may assist you during the upcoming winter holidays. Please let me know if you have any questions or comments with some of your energy management tips. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/52/Energy-Management-The-Key-to-Living-with-NTMBronchiectasis
Here are my big Black Friday plans. Happy weekend, friends.
On this Thanksgiving Holiday, I want to honor your strength, resilience, and the courage you show every single day. Living with Bronchiectasis and NTM isn’t easy, and yet you continue to meet each challenge with determination, hope, and a big heart.May this season remind you of the small victories—clearer breaths, moments of rest, connection with loved ones, and the support of a community that truly understands you. You are not alone in this journey. Your perseverance inspires others more than you know.Wishing you warmth, comfort, and gentle days ahead.Happy Thanksgiving—may it bring peace, gratitude, and healing over time. Make the best of your day.:) Katie
Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🍁🍽 Day!Below are some Thanksgiving quotes to share with your family and friends:, https://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/holidays/thanksgiving/thanksgiving-quotes
Hello! Below is a Chronic Illness Survival Guide, from the Mighty website. The holidays can be a time of celebration, fun and high energy for some people. Many BNTM individuals experience fatigue , especially when dealing with a respiratory infection that can impact our daily lives. This fatigue can be especially impacted around the holidays if we push way beyond our normal routines. Some of the tips in the guide below apply to BNTM individuals, some may not. The purpose of the guide is to communicate honestly with others about any limitations that you may have, to be compassionate with yourself. Let me know if any particular suggestion appeals to you. https://themighty.com/topic/chronic-illness/chronic-illness-holiday-survival-guide/
Are you a caregiver? The link below includes frequently asked questions for patients with COPD. Some of the questions and answers are applicable to the BNTM community, some are not. Do you have any specific questions regarding caregiving for an individual with BNTM? We are here to assist you. https://www.copdfoundation.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Caregiver/FAQ-for-Caregivers.aspx
Hello!Thanksgiving is around the corner. Do you have a favorite quote on the topic of gratitude? Below is a list of 25 quotes on the topic of gratitude. Let us know if one specific quote touches your heart ♥. https://www.azquotes.com/quotes/topics/gratitude.html
Hello! Boosting your immune system with good nutrition is essential as we approach the holidays and the winter months. Taking a one a day vitamin is recommended by most health care professionals. Additionally, supplemental Vitamin D is recommended if your vitamin D levels are low. Below is an article on top immune boosting foods - please note that not all foods on this list are good for individuals with acid reflux: https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/7-foods-fight-back-immune-system-boosters/
Hello! I realize that this is a busy week of the year for many members. Please do not forget to include your airway clearance into your daily activities. As the health care professionals repeat over and over again “ Airway Clearance, Airway Clearance, Airway Clearance…”, as the best way to manage Bronchiectasis. The link below reviews the different airway clearance devices and the meds for airway clearance: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/Coping-with-Airway-Mucus
Getting Winter-Ready — Simple Steps to Stay Safe and Cozy
As winter edges closer, it’s the perfect time to get ahead of the cold before snow and ice arrive. A few thoughtful steps can go a long way in keeping you healthy and comfortable:
🩺 Schedule your appointments early. If you’re due for a physical or eye exam, try to get them done before the weather turns rough.
🧣 Bring out the comfort. Wash and air out your winter blankets and comforters so they’re ready when the chill sets in.
❄ Plan ahead for snow removal. Whether it’s a neighbor, friend, or local service, having help lined up before a storm hits saves stress later.
☕ Stock up the pantry. Keep favorites like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, soups, and broths ready — they’re comforting and help with hydration too.
🛒 Arrange for groceries. Make plans now for someone to help with deliveries or pickups if you can’t get out safely.
💊 Check with your doctor about cold medicines. Always be sure cough syrups, throat lozenges, or over-the-counter meds are safe for you and won’t interfere with your prescriptions.
✨ Think through before you do. A little planning now can make your winter easier and the holidays brighter!
Hello! As we approach the holiday season, it is a good time to review preventative measures to lessen exacerbations in BNTM individuals. As the old cliche says “ An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure “. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/91/Preventing-Winter-Exacerbations-in-Bronchiectasis-and-NTM-Patients
This year’s theme for World COPD Day is “ Short of Breath, think COPD. The RT magazine article below discusses the need for more diagnostic testing to be done early on for people with shortness of breath. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment early on will improve the quality of life for many individuals: https://respiratory-therapy.com/disorders-diseases/chronic-pulmonary-disorders/copd/world-copd-day-2025/?utm_term=RT%20Five%20Nov%202025&utm_campaign_type=newsletter&utm_hsid=346581813&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_9IlSWeAeVLh2ktc3RNQ00qbMNN5UCBAJ88j7h4bxN67iY8MaaF_Z-i4TsD1A8WV_rcAanm-JkwfQJIjAKqA2SaHJuyQ&_hsmi=390537346&utm_source=newsletter
Hello! As we celebrate World COPD day, I am posting information about the significant overlap of Bronchiectasis and COPD: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/COPD-Bronchiectasis-Overlap
Hello! Are you free tomorrow 11/19/25@11am,EST?
The COPD Foundation is excited to be hosting a special live session about one of our most unique programs: Harmonicas for Health. Tune in at https://lnkd.in/gw-xgVTx
at 11 a.m. Eastern Time for this virtual session. Grab your harmonica and get ready to make some noise!
The Harmonicas for Health program, created by respiratory therapists, teaches patients to mimic pursed-lip breathing, which may make breathing easier and lessen the stress of not being able to breathe well.
Exciting news around the globe- Brinsupri has been approved by the European Commission, as the first drug for non cystic fibrosis patients. Details of this announcement are in the link below: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/european-commission-approves-brinsupri-brensocatib-as-the-first-and-only-treatment-approved-for-non-cystic-fibrosis-bronchiectasis-in-the-european-union-302618805.html
Have you been tested or are you interested in being tested for Alpha 1Antitrypsin Deficiency Disorder? Information on the diagnostic test is in the link below:,https://alpha1.org/testing-diagnosis/
Do you have Alpha 1Atitrypsin Deficiency Disease ? Alpha 1 can be the cause of Bronchiectasis in some patients. Below is a recent video on Alpha1 from the patient perspective: https://alpha1.org/video-library/
The video above , Feeling Your Best with Bronchiectasis: Airway Cleincludes presenters Bradley Boynton, RT and Christina Hunt, RT, Senior Director of BNTM Care Delivery and Education.
Indywoman,
Hello! I am glad that you found a great video on airway clearance. I assume that you are referring to the video below:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnQIXc699d0
I thought I would share this for other members to view.
This was the best, -the absolute best video on airway clearance that I have found, including the question and answ. It is called, "Feeling Your Best with Bronchiectasis: Airway Clearance" and is on YouTube
Good Afternoon,
I'm new to the website. I finally got a diagnosis last year after about 3 years of hardly being listened to in terms to the symptoms I was experiencing. My Pulmonologist told me to check out this website. Hoping to learn more.
Have a great day!
We’re close to reaching an exciting milestone—nearly 5,000 members in the Bronchiectasis and NTM360social online community! 🎉
Healthy lifestyle choices can assist Alpha -1 patients to have a better quality of life. Below is information from the Aplha-1 Foundation on these lifestyle options: https://alpha1.org/healthy-lifestyle-choices/
November is Alpha 1 Awareness Month. The Alpha 1 Foundation is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Below is some basic information on Alpha 1: https://alpha1.org/what-is-alpha1/
@Cjack
November is both COPD Awareness Month and Alpha 1 Awareness Month!! I've been spreading the word for both :)
Thank you for sharing this! I saw De Sandhaus speak several years ago at the annual Alpha 1 conference. So grateful for his dedicated research.
Indywoman/Margo,
How well you describe the way a pulmonary disease can overwhelm your life, leaving you isolated and feeling that you’ve lost yourself and your bearings in this world. I’ve been living with my condition for about 15 years. I felt like I was maintaining pretty well in the early years but when the COVID pandemic hit I went into a downhill slide. My career wound down and ultimately ended during that time. Both my physical and mental health deteriorated and I felt completely lost. With considerable effort, I’ve gradually been able to get my head above water and forge a path toward better health. Couldn’t have done it without the support of a wonderful husband! Glad to find this forum too.
November is Alpha 1 Awareness Month—spread the word!
Lucinda,
Interesting how the sequence varies for those diagnosed with Alpha 1, NTM and bronchiectasis. In my case the NTM (MAC) led to uncovering the other 2 conditions. I had never heard of Alpha 1 prior to my diagnosis, thus ignored low-grade symptoms for a long time. Had I known that Alpha 1 was in my family I would have been much quicker to act on the small chronic cough and unexplained weight loss I was experiencing. November is Alpha 1 Awareness Month—spread the word!
Hello! This is the time of the year when it is important to review some basic infection control measures. Many of us have compromised immune systems, some know of their etiology ( cause) , others do not know how or why they get sicker more easily than others. Below are some tips from the Mayo Clinic to prepare you for the upcoming months: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/pneumococcal-pneumonia/tips-for-immunocompromised-people-healthy-habits-vaccines-and-more/?utm_source=bing_search&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mc_cs_ag_1229255071910708&utm_content=mc_cs_cid_76828576858826
Hi Cjack,
From my experience, many are diagnosed with Alpha 1, later find out they have developed bronchiectasis and then some go on to develop NTM. I was diagnosed with Alpha 1 in 2007. I didn't develop bronchiectasis until 10 or so years later. I have a small amount of bronchiectasis in my lower right lung. I'm a ZZ as well.
I think you bring up a good question regarding overlap. I don't know but that might be a good task for our researchers to figure out.
As far as augmentation therapy, no I don't receive it at this time. I did for 14 years but about 5 years ago, I made a personal decision to stop due to several issues. I'm unsure if I will try again at some point or not. For now, my lungs are holding steady.
It's good to meet a fellow Alpha. I'm glad you are here!!
Hello! Did you attend the BNTM Coffee Break yesterday?
Do you have any questions regarding the presentation on nutrition ?
In case you missed our BNTM Coffee Break yesterday, below is a link on Nutrition and Immunity, presented by Michelle MacDonal, RD: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=wFdLASqg8T4&list=PL8Zo-1VDhSPN76umWbkm003ge1_T1tMZ5&index=5&pp=iAQB
Happy World Kindness Day.
"Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind.” Henry James
@Alyssa Dittner
Thank you so much. This site has been such a boon- a landing pad. Thank you so much!
Because I had pneumonia last year with hospitalization for 6 days and this has been going on for now the 4th yr. I do have a spirometer, and an AerobiKA and use them daily in that order- former in the morning-AerobiKA both morning and night. I do have a pulmonologist now- he's kind of old school, but he said not yet to the nebulizer, but I do steam inhalation twice a day. Take my albuterol and steroid inhalers, was recently on 875 mg. of Amoxicillin for 20 days when this started up again... the end of Sept.
Alway starts in chest, then goes into my sinuses and lingers like an intruder, but we have added Musinex twice a day, Flonase once a day, Neti pot and my wonderful husband just splurged ($1500. worth!) and got 3 highly rated air purifiers that came yesterday!
I'm leaving no stone unturned. Sputum samples in hospital and recently -- but show negative results. My life for these 5 months is now so constrained by worrying about crowds, and it has affected my sense of self, as I'm sure it does with everybody. I'm not overweight, (BMI is 21.1) exercise 6 days a week with Strength and Cardio classes from March-October, but terrified now to go to them during these winter months. It affects friendships and restricts visits to grandkids...who pick up lots at daycare. I'm grateful this isn't all year, though.
I so appreciate your reply, Alyssa. Like all forums when people are desperate/scared, replies are a thrown life ring and eagerly grabbed. I am in the process of watching all the videos. TMI... : )
Indywoman/Margo
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. We make every effort to support our members, our medical professionals cannot and will not provide a diagnosis or suggest a specific medication; those decisions should be left to your personal medical team. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with COPD, please consult a physician before making changes to your own COPD management plan.
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