Hi Sue, The explanation I was given regarding cycling is that someone who may be experiencing silent reflux (LPR) could expose a vulnerable (bronchiectasis in this case) lung to refluxed stomach contents that could include mycobacteria. In the case of a morning bike ride, it's typically after coffee and breakfast, then the downward position assumed on a road bike along with the use of abdominal muscles, lends itself to reflux. As mentioned previously, because I feel so strongly about the value of my cycling, I've changed my routines around coffee and meals close to ride time, rather than give up riding.
I was diagnosed with MAC/bronchiectasis in 2011 and began Aerobika and 7% saline in 2016. I do so twice a day. After exercise I can really cough stuff up IF I lay on my back. Besides an often times irritated feeling in my bronchial area, I feel quite good and can be very active. Tests had been stable until recently when lung function, CT, and sputum culture worsened. One small area on the CT showed what could become cavitary. 🙁
I'd seen a few comments on this forum about other doctors who prescribe intermittent antibiotics rather than "the 3," and that made me curious.