Sorry, I meant mucus. I don't have, and as far as I know, never have had plugs. After 18 months of antibiotics while in my 60's, I hope never to have to do that again.

I am not surprised by the differing opinions of pulmonologists. If I had 3 of them disagreeing with one another, I would be very inclined to go with the experts - such as NJH, Mayo, UT Tyler and others. They are at the forefront of research and rely on the most current protocols.

Now that the effectiveness of daily airway clearance, especially with hypertonic (7% or 3%) saline, is well-established in limiting the severity of MAI, doctors are not nearly as quick to jump to antibiotics. Unless your symptoms worsen, the CT shows worsening infection, or your colony counts increase, I doubt Dr McShane will advise antibiotics.

Don't underestimate the rigor of taking 3 antibiotics, 3 or more times a week, for 12 months or more. Maybe just concentrate on the airway clearance to help rid you of mucus plugs?