I've never coughed up blood (how horrible that must be!) or had pneumonia. However, the radiologists who were following my recurring nodules started reporting that the
Ct scans sbowed that the nodules were either a mycobacteria infection or the result of aspiration. I researched and asked my pulmonogist to have me bring in a sputum sample. I had done several when I was first diagnosed with copd and bronchiectasis but it had been several years since testing.

My pulmonologist refused. She said that my increasing mucus was caused by the bronchiectssis and aspiration. I could not understand why she wouldn't order the test so I went to a different pulmonologist in different medical practice. My new doctor gave me a sputum sample container at my first visit.

Several weeks later, she called to tell me that my sputum was positive for MAC.

baz10, What do you think about asking for a sputem test? If you decide to get one, ask that they test for mac and pseudomonas, and tell them you want a suseptibilty test done as well. Do you know what that is? There are still many drs out there that don't know to check that out as an option. I was told I had pneumonia 8 times. I was given a one week prescription of a broad spectrum antibiotic each time I 'had' pneumonia. I was never checked for mac. It is my belief that I had mac all along and not pneumonia.

baz10, I just re-read this post of yours. I think you should insist on a sputem test and know for sure. I don't mean to tell you what you should do, I just don't want you to fall between the cracks. We have all learned here that being your own best health advocate is of upmost importance.