Bronchiectasis: New Diagnosis

Posted by navylady @navylady, Jul 26, 2018

New to your group. Non-smoker. Pneumonia x6 in 12 years, double pneumonia twice. Was diagnosed with chronic bronchitis and COPD for past 15 years, now pulmonologist based on x-rays and MRI has diagnosed no COPD, yes bronchiectasis. Take advair 250/50 twice a day. Past ten days I am increasingly gurgling, wheezing, some chest pain. I have recently moved to Florida which I like but am having long wait times to get into see a family care NP who can hopefully refer me to a pulmonologist. I walk 20-30 minutes a day. Any ideas how to manage this now. Am worried about getting pneumonia again. I went to one walk-in clinic at a reputable hospital. They literally did nothing except take x-rays. Didn't even talk to me. Just billed $2000+ for x-rays. Do I try another walk-in clinic. I feel very alone right now with this chronic medical problem.

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janovr | @janovr | Apr 1, 2019

In reply to @janovr "@brigby Yhank you for your post! So encouraging!" + (show)

@windwalker The post of encouragement was meant for you, however, we all need it. I am going through a rough patch with URI that will not leave! UGH!

Dee | @danielad | Apr 1, 2019

In reply to @windwalker "@danielad You should have a sputem test every six months at least." + (show)

@windwalker -- Terry, thanks, I didn't know!
--Dee

Dee | @danielad | Apr 1, 2019

In reply to @merpreb "@brigby- So you don't use an inhaler and a nebulizer? I get it. Has your doctor..." + (show)

@merpreb, @brigby -- I was given inhaler and nebulizer. Admittedly, I only use them when I "must". However, what I found is that if I do use them as I should, I feel and do better. One more thing -- my pulmonologist was sure that my Bronchitis and Pneumonias were due to my continuous sinus infections -- She was right! So I had to add the sinus irrigations to inhaler and nebulizer! Then I had Sinus surgery and I have had NO sinus infections since that time ... and only 2 bronchitis ... I am a much happier camper!!!
--Dee

janovr | @janovr | Apr 1, 2019

In reply to @danielad "@merpreb, @brigby -- I was given inhaler and nebulizer. Admittedly, I only use them when I..." + (show)

@danielad Your post could be from me! But I have figured it out for myself after a month of bronchitis. Looking back, every March, April , or May for the past 6 years when the pollen hits... I get bronchitis. I have learned to try and nip it, but this year it has lasted the entire month of March. Finally after 3 antibiotics nearing the end.
I just got a nebulizer! Jan/Fl.

pfists | @pfists | Apr 1, 2019

In reply to @brigby "@pfists how long ago were you diagnosed with m. Abscessus, and how long have you tested..." + (show)

@brigby
I tested positive for mycobacteria Abcessus for over a year and have tested negative for two years.
I did use some herbal antibiotics though.
Shari

Brenda R. | @brigby | Apr 1, 2019

@pfists which herbals did you use

migizii | @migizii | Apr 1, 2019

In reply to @tdrell "Everyone....National Jewish Health on Sept 21st 2019 is having annual NTM lecture for Patients and Families..." + (show)

@migizii is this a conference? Is there a website I can check this out at? My son lives in Denver and I could possibly make a trip out out of it!

Dee | @danielad | Apr 1, 2019

In reply to @janovr "@danielad Your post could be from me! But I have figured it out for myself after..." + (show)

@janovr -- Hi! Another person who understands is always welcome! I stay away from everything I can -- Pollen, grasses, weeds, dogs, cats, molds, dust and dust mites ... If I don't, I will get back to where I was! Stay healthy!
--Dee

tdrell | @tdrell | Apr 1, 2019

@migizii...go for it...the NJH conference....it is all day..cost is $25 total. It includes a delicious breakfast and lunch and great speakers. Go to NationalJewish.org.....in search bar...type “2019 NTM Lecture Series for Patients and Families” scroll down .... having son live there is a great convenience....I have attended for 3 years and always learn soooo much.tdrell

tdrell | @tdrell | Apr 1, 2019

In reply to @windwalker "@tdrell That happened to you the last time you traveled to Denver (last yr). Are you..." + (show)

@windwalker Terri.... hard to pinpoint how/where I got the bronchitis from this year....we flew for weekend to San Diego to be with son and his 2 year old...who had continuous cold and vomited the evening we left....then another flight to Denver where 8 year old, daughter -,son -in -law all had colds...then an hour with NJH doctor in small room while she had mask on for a cold...then back on plane!!! I rationalized the bronchitis and sinusitis by knowing a) had one bout vs 3 like 2018 b) did not get influenza A like last year . Thanks for asking Terri tdrell