You probably speak for many of us when you say "...I'm so thoroughly confused on what to believe anymore, what's safe and what's not. I'm overwhelmed in trying to make good decisions.."

It's the old story - the more I learn, the less I know - and I have been fully immersed in studying about Bronchiectasis, MAC/NTM, Pseudomonas and Asthma for over seven years since my diagnosis.

I know than nebulized glutathione has shown some promise for people with Cystic Fibrosis, but that studies for those of us with other conditions have been limited. For a while I used the precursor of glutathione, NAC (N Acetyl Cysteine) as an oral supplement to help thin the mucus and reduce the inflammation in my lungs. It worked for a few months, but when my infection lessened, so did the benefit I was seeing and I stopped.

Every few days, I see or hear of a supplement that has helped some people with my conditions, but usually the research behind it is slim to non-existent.

What do I do? Follow the research - even retrospective reviews of small studies can help. If there is no solid research, done using proper scientific methods to exclude bias, provide a control group, and track all participants, I give it a pass.

I try to be inclusive - taking in research from modern science and medicine, traditional practices, Oriental medicine and alternative practices - BUT it must be properly conducted, not just based on tradition or trials outside the human body, such as on animals or in-vitro (test tube/lab.) I especially appreciate some of the studies coming out of Asia because they seem to dedicate a lot of resources to research.

Another criteria I have is that it must be SAFE. To me that means not introducing foreign substances (including prescription drugs) into my lungs until I understand what they are, how they work, and what the downsides might be. My lungs are fragile enough without experimenting on them.

People in this group often suggest treatments like glutathione, inhaled essential oils, daily sinus rinses, even garlic (allicin.) Some are safe, some not so much. I always bring these to my pulmonologist first - I was even skeptical of 7% saline at first because it sounded so harsh - but it has been a game-changer for me.

I have used alternative medicine practices for many years - PT, chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, myofascial release therapy, some homeopathic and traditional oriental medicines...but if my pulmonologist isn't on-board with something going into my lungs, I trust her education and experience.