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New to MAC and considering treatments options: What did you do?
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Nov 19, 2023 | Replies (190)Comment receiving replies
Thank you for all your replies and information. I am currently in the throes of coming to grips with my Dx and all the conflicting information from different sources. I also feel kind of lost on which way to turn to obtain the true information I need. I currently don't have any severe symptoms, only what has always been sinus type symptoms (I have Chronic Rhinitis or Vasomotor Rhinitis) that I've had for as long as I can remember. Although my CT Scan shows changes, I am still able to perform rigorous exercise without difficulty or shortness of breath. I do not have bronchiectasis per CT Scan but do have "tree in bud" and "ground glass". It makes for a confusing picture for me to know what is right for me to do at this point. As you can probably guess, not much guidance has been provided by my current Pulmonologist other than to not worry about it at this point. That really does not help me since I'm more of a person that wants to head off trouble "at the pass". At the very least I feel I need a second opinion to hopefully give me a better understanding of what I should do next.
Thank you for your patience and explanation regarding the blog. I've never done a blog before. If you have any pointers for me on a second opinion I would be grateful.
Replies to "Thank you for all your replies and information. I am currently in the throes of coming..."
I recommend going to National Jewish Health for a second opinion. They have world class physicians who are renowned experts in NTM. If not there, UT Tyler is another center of excellence.
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If I understand correctly, you have neither Bronchiectasis nor an infection at this point.
One question that we would never have asked 4 years ago, but which is relevant now, have you had Covid, even a mild infection? Doctors are seeing a lot of lung changes, especially "ground glass opacities" after Covid infections. Many seem to resolve themselves over time, without turning into something more serious.
What led to the CT scan that showed the irregularities?
I think, at this point, the "wait and watch" approach is what most doctors would recommend. Did you pulmonologist suggest a follow-up CT in a year?
In the meantime, the best things you can do are stop smoking or vaping if you do either, stay as healthy as you can with diet, exercise & rest, and report any changes in your lungs to the doc promptly. Are you comfortable with that approach?
Sue