Hi Nancy,
I was diagnosed with bronchiectasis and MAC back in 2014 and 2019 respectively. I have elected not to take the antibiotics due to fear of the side effects. My pulmonologist and I are taking the wait and see approach. I have been able to keep it under control via my daily routine of nebulizing with 7% hypertonic saline, doing airway clearance, using my compression vest and Aerobika (airway clearance) device. As Sue mentioned, the saline creates an unfriendly environment for the MAC bacteria thus slowing its growth. The saline was a real game changer in terms of my cough which was pretty bad. In addition, maintaining a good diet, regular exercise (very important!) and keeping a positive attitude are vitally important. Everyone is different however. There is no one size fits all with this condition. This is what is working for me and I wish you the very best in figuring out the best course of action. You have come to the right place as I have learned a tremendous amount from this group.