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Bronchiectasis: New Diagnosis
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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I too have bronchiectasis only. I tested negative for MAC. I use a nebulizer and smart vest twice a day. On my recent visit to the pulmonologist my CT was stable compared to last year. He did order me an Acapella device to use when traveling. Is it effective for you? I was glad to have an alternative to the vest but was wondering how well it would work.
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1 Reaction@gej53, I don't even know what MAC is other than it seems to have some relationship with bronchiectasis. What is a smart vest? Sounds like good news about your CT. The Acapella is the only thing I'm doing. I don't know whether it is making any difference at all! So I look forward to seeing the Pulmonologist about that in October (very difficult to get an app't with her!) My symptoms: more coughing than normal - sometimes seems like a lot. Amount of phlegm is minimal, sometimes not. I'm guessing you may have more phlegm which would be why the other devices you mention? Did your doc show you how to use the Acapella? Mine had her nurse show me and then I practiced a few times with the RN. I think that was helpful.
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1 ReactionHow does the Acapella device compare to the Aerobika in effectiveness for loosening mucus in the lungs?
@kathyhg I never heard of the Aerobika (I will google it). Do you know if it is supposed to be equivalent or alternative to the Acapella? I have little sense that the Acapella is loosening mucus in my lungs - well maybe a little bit sometimes but other times, nothing there!
I had never heard of Acapella until I read your post but it sounds like they do the same thing. I’m wondering if they are equally effective? I use an Aerobika.
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1 ReactionBoth are "flute " devices used to loosen mucus. The aerobika is newer and for me works much better than the acapella.
Thanks!
@rits Thanks from me too. Do you use it specifically for bronchiectasis as opposed to MAC (whatever that is).
Barb....if you want to learn what MAC is...a type of NTM....go to NTMinfo.org to find helpful links.....Nationaljewish.org and mayoclinic.org are good resources.tdrell
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1 Reaction@tdrell Thanks! Another question! What is NTM? (neurological.....?)