Well, I was absolutely a skeptic about 7% saline at first - it just sounded too simple. But... I am a fervent convert, and it may just have been the best thing I have done since diagnosis. For the first time in roughly 15 years, I have had upper respiratory infections (3 now) that did not evolve into either bronchitis or pneumonia. I credit the 7% saline keeping my lungs clear of mucus so the germs cannot take up residence. If I were you, I would (seriously) find myself a little battery powered hand held nebulizer and start the 7% saline routine. It takes about 10-15 minutes morning and evening. You can even do it while you watch the news or read email. Don't let all the descriptions of complicated cleaning routines scare you! I soak mine in hot water and a drop of dish soap, rinse & air dry. Once every week or 2, I boil it in a saucepan (most other people here seem to use a microwave sterilizer bag) Either one takes about as long as it takes to load or unload the dishwasher.
Maybe @thumperguy can convince you...
Sue

Hello I weirdo 1. I love the name you chose to use. You can follow the Albuterol treatment with the 7% saline right in the same cup (but not together). It is important to get the airways open first with the albuterol and then do the saline to bring up any phlegm. This is done 2 times a day for lung hygiene. This should make your lungs cleared out and ready for the Arikayce. I can tell you this much, when I first joined this group in 2013; hardly anybody had heard of using the saline. Many in this group were feeling miserable, having repeated exacerbations, and feeling like death was near. There used to be a whole lot of crying going on within this group, (and fear). The attitudes have definitely shifted since most of this group's members have now gone to using the 7% saline. I know that fitting one more thing into your routine is a pain in the butt, but it is so worth it. How are you doing on the three antibiotics?

Hey, I am new this year to antibx and 7%saline nebs. It has been a period of adjustment since I still work. I only have a very good infectious disease doctor (who is open to suggestions I get on this group chat) and will get a pulmonologist when I find time. (hopefully next year). I had to quit the rifampin due to side effects. but am managing the other 2(3x a week). She suggested arikayce lately, but I said no until I get results from a november CT scan. (I do not have lung cavitations).-(Does anyone know if the new protocols add arikayce for nodular MAC?) I got use to the nebs after a week, but I must admit, I'm down to once a day because I figure I'm coughing up some sputum daily, using aerobika, and postural drainage (Yoga bridge) and I haven't been sick this year except for a virus that did not turn into an exacerbation. I may have to extend this treatment period ....but it fits my schedule. Good luck with your journey. Questions are always good. Cindy