Bronchiectasis what are the stages and symptoms

Thank you. Yes, I also take Mucinex LA 2 times a day. Thank you for suggestion of clinic medication management specialist. MAI. Another story. It was seen on a sputum culture and areas in my lungs that doc suspected was MAI. Treatment? I changed PCP & pulmonologist about 6 months after the sputum spec and CT Scan when I saw on the summary from Pulmo to PCP that: "....I do not believe that this lady is a good candidate for long term antibiotic therapy." Neither of them had explained to me what MAI was or what the treatment was or possible other fungus in the lungs? I have a different PCP and a different Pulmo now and I have been to UNC Chapel Hill, NC' Bronchiectasis Clinic. The Pulmo at UNC Chapel Hill told me that I should have a local pulmo and I will go to Chapel Hill every 6 months.

Thank you, Kate, This lung disease is all new to me and I have so much to learn. I do take Mucuinex 2 X day and use flutter device (Aeroika), Smart Vest, and nebulizer. I have not heard of NAC but I certainly will find out. Thank you for the link. One reason it takes me so long, (I think) is because there is SO MUCH thick mucus, and sometimes I use 2 ampules of 7% Saline to feel that I am half way "unclogged." I wish my doctors had listened to my complaints and diagnosed the problem before it got so bad. I didn't have a clue! I thought it was my heart and a bad respiratory infection for about the 1st two years and that was with a PCP only.

Thank you, Kate, This lung disease is all new to me and I have so much to learn. I do take Mucuinex 2 X day and use flutter device (Aeroika), Smart Vest, and nebulizer. I have not heard of NAC but I certainly will find out. Thank you for the link. One reason it takes me so long, (I think) is because there is SO MUCH thick mucus, and sometimes I use 2 ampules of 7% Saline to feel that I am half way "unclogged." I wish my doctors had listened to my complaints and diagnosed the problem before it got so bad. I didn't have a clue! I thought it was my heart and a bad respiratory infection for about the 1st two years and that was with a PCP only.

Raney, I’ve likely commented on this before, nonetheless I discarded use of the percussion vest several months ago having become convinced that it wasn’t contributing significantly to keeping symptoms at bay. My current regimen: 20 minute nebulized 7% saline session twice daily. The 7% seems to be controlling MAC as “advertised.” I’ve been “flare-up” free for nearly two years. Using the “nebbing” time to read diminishes the sense that the time is wasted. (Full disclosure) I’ve long been convinced that I have a “lighter” case of MAC than many others on this forum. For example, I’ve never had to routinely use antibiotics. Following a negative therapeutic reaction to antibiotic treatment of a flare up a couple of years ago I put them on the shelf and left ‘em there. Don

@raney Sorry that your PCP was not on top of your illness. One other thing to mention that some Dr's gloss over but seems to be important... If you have acid reflux, you should take care of it. Fluids can aspirate into your lungs. I hope you get your mucous under control. Are you comfortable with your Dr now?

Does your regimen include using albuterol soln or an other soln to open your airways prior to nebbing the saline? Do you use an oscillating OPEP Device to help move the phlegm? I have wondered about the safety of using albuterol long term.

Do you mix the 7% Saline with anything else? Does your Dr. prescribe this method of clearing your lungs?

What does the LA after the Mucinex mean?

Does your regimen include using albuterol soln or an other soln to open your airways prior to nebbing the saline? Do you use an oscillating OPEP Device to help move the phlegm? I have wondered about the safety of using albuterol long term.

I do have GERD and have been on Pantoprazole for 3 years. I have the HOB elevated 6" and not eating for at least 2 hours before going to bed.
My present pulmonologist. The jury is still out. I selected this practice because and a particular doc because he specialized in broncho... and has done research studies. My 1st appointment with him. Something happened and I was seen by a NP. Then the next appointment was made with her. When I asked for the doctor that I wanted, I was told "You started with her and if you want to change providers you will have to request it in writing." I will request it in writing if necessary. I have only seen her for the past 9 months. I do like my new PCP!!