@eespoor I agree with your decision. You said you have congestive heart failure also which may play a role in your decision but on the flip side not all have to do 3 years on the drugs. Most do 18 months. The rule is continue for 12 months once you get a negative result. I did 14 months. I had a few reactions to the drugs. Towards the end I wasn’t happy with the stomach cramps and time spent on the toilet and vomiting. I probably won’t do the drugs again if the MAC comes back. I’m 67 but quality of life is more important to me too. Best wishes to you on the rest of your journey in life.

@eespoor but not everyone gets side effects, we are all different, some breeze through treatment.

@eespoor I couldn’t agree more! Quality v quantity every time especially for us oldies.Good luck to you and my very beat wishes😘

@eespoor Having reached 86 is something very special.
I do understand why you used the word "Confused."
I am 83 and 7 months and decided in 2024 not to take the antibiotics thanks to those who guided me via this Mayo Connect.
I have felt fine from the beginning of being diagnosed with BE, Bronchiectasis, and the Intercellular bacteria in my lungs. My problem is that I have to clear phlegm nearly constantly. The bacteria was a low load of bacteria when first found during my visit to National Jewish Hospital/Clinic in Denver. The NJH pulmonologist suggested I do watchful waiting of which I still am doing (my choice) due to the bacteria not having grown much and nearly not showing in the sputum testing done at NJH and Tyler labs recently.
However, I did have at least four non NJH pulmonologists wanting me to start the antibiotics. I am glad I did not start them.
I recently had a visit with another pulmonologist who looked at my C Scan and all information available to him about my BE/MAC and he said..."You don't have to be on the antibiotics."

To me it is living and learning to do all one needs to do to keep the immune system up, the body strong and the routines to clear the mucus from our lungs.
Glad you took time to read all and find the information you needed.
Barbara

@eespoor I have done the 3 antibiotic treatment 3 times. Mac comes back, at least in my case. I have had some stomach issues and temporary hearing loss. I don’t believe I will go back on them again. I just don’t feel good when on them and I’m with you, I want whatever time I have left to enjoy being alive. I also have bronchiactisis and was diagnosed a few years ago with CF. I am 71 years old. My motto is do as much as you can while you can. I hope your symptoms don’t get any worse and you are able to live life like you want. Best wishes!