Resources for The ABC's on Bronchiectasis and MAC (NTM)

We have recently started a new discussion:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/what-is-your-top-question-about-mac-and-bronchiectasis/
In my experience, if I have a specific question about MAC or Bronchiectasis, probably 50 other people are curious about the same topic too.

So, after reviewing the "ABC's", if you have a question - use the link above and ask away!
Sue

Here is the best, current, comprehensive video on airway clearance. It is from the world NTM conference in 2023, long but worth the time if you are new to this - or if you need a reminder why we need to do it regularly - like me!

Hi Sue, Thanks for posting the video. The Respiratory Therapist really emphasized the importance of ‘breath holding’ (to a count of 4) when using the PEP or OPEP devices and other airway clearance techniques. The online video from the company selling the Aerobika was helpful too, for those who use that device. The presenter in this video covers all techniques.
People can check out more at http://www.worldbronchiectasisday.org

One of the questions frequently asked on this forum is "How many people have Bronchiectasis, but don't have MAC (NTM)?" The answer seems to be that only an [un]lucky 10% of us have MAC, based on a review of research studies done over the past 15 years.

Credit to @pacathy for this great link:

In reply to @cavlover "I understand that, but it just seems like MAC is so hard to rid. Not going..." + (show)
After I was diagnosed with bronchiectasis and the MAC cultures were negative, I was curious about this, too. While I didn’t find the answer about our chance of getting MAC over our life time, I found a some interesting info.
Here’s one.
https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/bmjopen/12/8/e055672.full.pdf

Another link to a very helpful research and education site of those of us with MAC & Bronchiectasis.
https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/
Credit to @jml6812 for posting this in another discussion.

ATTENTION FELLOW "RESEARCH NERDS" - Great new(er) article on Bronchiectasis from Science Digest -
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0755498223000118
This seems to "cover it all" - description, diagnosis, management and treatment of infections - with hundreds of sited references to specific aspects and research.
So, if you want answers, search here
Search tip for PC users, if you press < Ctrl> - you pop up a search box, where you can look for the exact term you are interested in.
Here are some sections I found interesting:
Section 3 Causes (I was surprised GERD was far down the list)
Section 6 Initial Management - including a list of screening tests recommended for doctors
Section 7 Airway Clearance
Section 9 Antibiotic Management - addressing exacerbations, Pseudomonas and NTM treatment
Section 10 Anti-inflammatory & Bronchodilator Treatment

Happy reading!

Dr Pamela McShane is one of the BEST in explaining the why & how of airway clearance - here she is in the latest NTM-ir Webinar - it's and hour and a half PACKED with explanations I have only seen in bits and pieces elsewhere -well worth the time to watch!

I watched this and found it very informative.

Thanks Sue! Dr. McShane is my doctor and worth the five hour drive to see her! The passion she has for her patients comes through in this video. On my first visit with her she changed my diagnosis from mild Bronchiectasis to the precursor to Bronchiectasis. Airway clearance is still a major part of my life and Dr. McShane is watching me closely to see if we can keep it from progressing. It’s always good to learn new techniques and different combinations to try. I am so grateful for the things I have learned and continue to learn through this forum. Thank you for your dedication to this group!

Agree! I drive 8 hours to see her!😊