I nebulize albuterol and ipratropium and a steroid Budesonide twice daily for Bronchiectasis and MAC. The Budesonide irritates my throat. Recently, pulmonologist added 3%sodium chloride for better mucus clearance. I was told to do all the solutions together in my nebulizer. I use the spacer. It usually takes 40 minutes. I use the time to read, catch up on emails or play on my computer. It is a routine I can manage.
My understanding is that 7% irritates the throat and causes more coughing, something I was already experiencing. Pulmonologists often start with 3%. I am doing fine on the 3% and it is helping with clearance and is not irritating my throat.