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@sueinmn

Hi Helen -
I guess the answer to a lot of questions with MAC is "It depends."
My home is highly unlikely to contain NTM in the water according to Dr Falkingham because we are plagued by pink slime mold. According to his research at the University of Virginia, the two cannot coexist in your pipes. As a result, I am probably less cautious than many people - we use .2 micron filtered drinking water for safety, keep our hot water heater at 138F to prevent growth of NTM, and use a rainfall (big drop) showerhead. Otherwise, my water precautions are minimal. I do use tap water for toothbrushing at home. But when we travel, we carry bottled spring water for drinking, toothbrushing, taking meds, etc.
This has worked for me for 4 years - 1 1/2 on the Big 3, 2 1/2 with airway clearance and nebulizing.
I'll answer your other question about saline in the other discussion.
Do you have any other questions about living with MAC?
Sue

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Replies to "Hi Helen - I guess the answer to a lot of questions with MAC is "It..."

Thanks you for your response. I guess I am scared as MAC is new to me. I started antibiotic therapy about 2weeks ago and this week I am to start the 4th with a nebulizer. Its a bit overwhelming....I guess my question its in regards to pain. I have been experiencing pain in my lower back and upper legs. Its not daily and at times comes in sudden. I will take motrin. Is this usual. I have other side effects but so far nothing I can't handle. If you or anyone has side effects from the mac meds what can I expect as far as how long they last?

Hi Sue, i know this is an old post, but I’d like to ask you What kind of 0.2 filter for drinking water do you use ? Thanks

Thank you for offering to help. I have just been diagnosed NTM (Abcessus) and want to know how to obtain NTM free water. Boiling? Reverse Osmosis that is sold at Whole Foods? What brand/type of home filter? Thank you!