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I've had bronchiectasis for over 30 years
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Feb 13 10:25pm | Replies (30)Comment receiving replies
New to the group. I was diagnosed with MAC and Bronchiectasis 2 years ago. What a learning curve! So thankful I found this group. I'm receiving little information from my care team - very happy with them, but... My education has been self initiated and online. How do you describe a flare?
Replies to "New to the group. I was diagnosed with MAC and Bronchiectasis 2 years ago. What a..."
@katemm Hi katemm,
A flare is the inability to breathe without pain on inhaling- down the road , it also hurts anytime you try to lay down / sort of like pressure & weight on your chest & maybe your back & it is hard to find a good sleeping position. PILLOWS DO HELP- Lots especially little ones softies that can be slid under to cushion ribs & muscles. I may be 83 but am always willing to get new ideas. The flareups are also called exacerbations. Truthfully pain meds, muscle relaxants are not as effective as sound pulmonology advise ( especially following radiology & bronchioscopies) that show your real problem & maybe a biopsy to see what exactly is effecting your lungs? Good luck. I read this site faithfully over 10-15 yrs ago & got so much info from other participants & mentors that no one else shared. Good to be back😊
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@katemm Welcome to this supportive group. Glad you found us. If it's any comfort, most of us are self taught when it comes to learning to manage bronchiectasis and NTM, especially airway clearance. The following thread is filled with great info. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/resources-for-the-abcs-on-bronchiectasis-and-mac-ntm/
Symptoms of a flare:
increased cough
sputum volume and/or thicker, darker sputum
shortness of breath or fatigue, malaise
Maybe accompanied by:
Chest tightness or discomfort
Low grade fever
Increased wheezing or crackles
A flare is suspected when 3 or more symptoms worsen for 48 hours and are above the patient’s baseline. Everyone presents slightly differently it seems.