I don’t want to sound like a downer here but I probably will and it kind of reflects my frustration or perhaps more likely fatigue with this journey. My apologies to anyone who has already read some of my comments. I love reading about people’s experiences with anything that helps NTM (Mac for me) as well as words of encouragement for those of us who are getting worn out by this disease.

I was diagnosed with Mac about 7 years ago. I was eager to start the Big 3, having been benevolently misled by my then respirologist who told me that they would cure my Mac in 12-18 months. Unfortunately, I got side effects after 6 months, found an NTM specialist, stopped the Big 3 and I’ve been faithfully nebulizing twice a day for over 6 years.

Re: alternative treatments/natural remedies - I’ve tried just about everything available to me where I live: naturopath, homeopath, osteopath, too many supplements and teas to list here, acupuncture and chinese medicine, “energy” work, gluten free diet, lactose free diet, low inflammation diet, home water filtration system and a variety of exercise programs. I’ve seen several medical specialists as (I believe) this disease has had an impact on my immune system, sinuses and GI system. I like to think I gave everything enough time to have some benefit if it was going to. I still exercise every day, take some supplements and adhere to healthy dietary changes. Overall, it’s been an exhausting roller coaster ride.

I like to think that the research, time and money from engaging in these interventions have been helpful as my lungs have been fairly stable over the last 6 years. Things could be worse for me without them. It was important for me to try alternative and supportive treatments so that I feel that I’ve done everything I could to keep myself well. However, I’m at the point where I’d be begging for medications if I thought I could avoid additional permanent side effects.

I strongly support everyone’s efforts to explore alternative treatments and appreciate when you share your experiences here. I hope you find success in your endeavours and I hope you share them with us! This forum has been invaluable in giving me ideas, kind and supportive feedback and, perhaps most of all, hope. Thanks to everyone who contributes here.