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← Return to Gardening with Bronch and MAC
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MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Nov 27, 2025 | Replies (52)
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@lmasch22 That seems like way too much to me!
I wear a N95 respiratory mask with the exhalation (one way) valve - easier to breathe in and cooler than the unvented ones. The 3M one is my go-to for gardening, mowing, potting, etc.
For infection protection, my long-time favorite is the unvented 3M N95 mask.
My ID doc recommended these masks, and I have avoided reinfection for over 6 years now.
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@sueinmn
I was diagnosed with MAC and BE in July '25. I also have always loved to play in the dirt and I have spent alot of time playing tennis on often very dry and dusty clay courts. I had a single bout of pneumonia 15 years ago, otherwise no other lung issues. I started showing symptoms about one year prior to diagnosis. My weight loss, chronic cough along with my love of gardening helped reach the diagnosis relatively quickly. I also had hemoptisis.
I've often wondered how many other MAC gardeners have similar stories.
My IDS doc suggests I am ok to go without a mask while taking the Big 3 (thoughts?) I wear one anyway. I want it to become habit plus it's been so dry and dusty. I like knowing I'm protected.
cissa