Kathryn,
Another option for getting a sputum sample is a bronchoscopy. I never cough up enough so that's what I had done after my CT scan. I've read other posts of people that say they also can't cough up enough so they too have to go that route. I agree with Katherine - not from experience but I've read an incredible amount and read a lot of posts on this site and another and I've never heard of a Dr. telling someone they absolutely won't be able to work. Listen to Katherine - yes, life will change. But, with support you will and can deal with it. It is frightening at first until you do your research. Knowledge really is power. Makes you feel more in control of the situation.

As an aside, I was unfamiliar with the lung cleansing you mentioned. Can anyone else explain that one to me? That's not something I'd ever heard of. Best of luck, Janet

Janet and Kathryn, I agree .. this "lung cleansing" thing .. never heard or read a thing about it .. ever! Anyone else chime in? Katherine

@kwilbur (Kathryn) and @justjanet -

I worked 50-60 hrs a week as a software database systems developer for the past 12 years. I found working took my mind off my illness. And it helped keep up my stamina. This disease was not going to get the better of me! I also began an exercise program thru my employer's wellness program - at the suggestion of my pulmonologist. I needed to strengthen my good lung and build stamina. It was very difficult for me at the beginning! But today I still do these exercises. Big difference. Had a cardiac stress test a few months ago, and the cardiologist was amazed at my stamina, considering my lung issues - he asked my routine and where I'd be if I weren't doing exercises for my lungs.

Never heard of a doctor saying you couldn't work . . . even oncologists treating serious cancer.

All the best,
Paula

@justjanet,

I've had a diagnostic lung lavage which may be the lung cleansing mentioned earlier. I had this several years after my last bronchoscopy. It's to collect cells from various parts of the lungs for analysis. Quite painless.

Thanks Paula .. that may be the explanation .. thanks! Because I have read that with sputum .. it may be from just one area of the lungs rather than various parts of the lungs. Interesting .. than you! Katherine

Thank you Paula. I actually went to a parking lot, lay down, and tried my<br>best. The result was nothing. It is good to know that the C Scan can be<br>a route to diagnosis.<br><br>You all are so wonderfully courageous... and so healthy in mind. You make<br>me feel better and so less alone.<br>

Good morning - I was diagnosed with MAC in July, 2016. I take the big three daily. I still work and I feel better since I started taking the meds. Keep the faith!!! You are not alone out here. I was terrified about taking the meds, going so far as saying I wasn't going to take any of the meds because of all of the possible side effects!!! I called my pulmo doctor crying and very upset. My pulmo reassured me that he had other patients taking the same meds, and no side effects. So now, I am doing exactly what the doctor tells me to do, I went and got my eyes/ears tested and I will be going in monthly for blood tests. I don't know if you believe in prayer, but it works!!! Believe me!!! I might have a long way to go, but I refuse to let this "infection" take over and rule my life. I have a good support group at work, and they know when I am feeling down, and they come and lift my spirits!!! So stay the course, and start a countdown. That's what I am doing, counting down the days I can get off the meds and my lungs are free and clear!!! Sophie....

I probably am using the wrong terminology. My doctor says that he puts saline solution in my right lung three times. First a swabbing of the bacteria I believe to determine which type of bacteria I have and what drugs will be effective. I am really new at this. Sorry if I caused confusion. I am learning from you.

Paula, you don't feel tired with the MAC or the meds?  I 'm tired all the time and shortness of breath before I was diagnosed.  I'm on my 3 months meds I still get tired easily, my shortness of breath is not as bad as it used to be.  I have bronchiectasis and acid reflux.  I think my immune system is not strong enough to fight infection.  Maybe if I get enough sleep and rest I will feel better.  I try not to think about it and do the best I can to be healthy.  I'm happy I found this forum, you are nice and very supportive. Thank you so much.  Cila<br>

Thank you for telling me your story. The posts I am reading show that, while the meds are strong, it doesn't mean your world has to stop. I take care of 1 and 1/2 acres of land and find that that really helps. Of coruse I do a little at a time. I work for about three hours. If I can't do it one day, I can do it the next. My school has a good exercise/wellness program which I should participate in.