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MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Mar 8 1:16pm | Replies (55)Comment receiving replies
@mary80 I was just diagnosed yesterday with MAC and the bronchiectasis diagnosis was a few months ago. I'm 43 and I completely understand how you feel. My pulmonologist assured me that my age was to my advantage and my overall health as well as the severity of the disease (caught early). This is a very individual disease, but I believe fully that I'm going to beat this and see the other side of it. I'm a firm believer in advocating for yourself and as we moms are often terrible at--asking for help when we need it! =) You are NOT alone and while the initial shock can be a bit much, you'll fight this and be ok. Get a good support system around you, ask for help (really, I mean it!) and read what you can about ways to keep the rest of your body (and spirit/mind) healthy through this process. My brother recommended therapy and it was the best advice I got, particularly as someone who cares for many others. Good luck and remember you're not alone!
Replies to "@mary80 I was just diagnosed yesterday with MAC and the bronchiectasis diagnosis was a few months..."
Take heart, dear one. Life does exist after diagnosis. I am 14 years out from initial diagnosis. I've had several different strains of NTM, cavities (that come and go), nodules (that come and go), and bronchiectasis. After two attempts at the Big 3 with horrific side effects, I gave up. I do my airway clearance as best I can. I am not a candidate for a vest because of back issues. I am 71...just fast-walked with my dog 2 miles this morning and played 20 minutes of Frisbee afterward; today is a good day. There are days, however, when I'm fatigued and discouraged and just plain mad about having to deal with this. But I have a good therapist, a strong faith, a wonderful husband, and caring friends. I don't often post because I don't want anyone to think I have it altogether...this is simply my experience. Your journey belongs only to you...I wish you the best.
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My MAC recurred after treatment and I have been visiting my pulmonologist and had an ID consult. They agree on holding off on treatment. I try to be active and I do the breathing exercises. Most of the time I feel good but have occasional chills and fatigue. Sometimes I cough up yellow sputum. I have learned to live with it and do my best each day. I am 79 .