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Hi Sue,
Once again my sputum had been negative for a few sputum test (and then positive and negative again) and now positive. What are your thoughts on these ups and downs? I see my infectious disease doc in Feb and decided I won’t go back on the big 3 again. Obviously it doesn’t work for me and after ototoxicity from Azithro I am done having the “cure” be worse than the disease. Is it common to have positive and negative sputum ad infinitum? Sorry for the frustration seeping out. I just can’t do it for a third time.
Thank you! Carolyn
Replies to "Hi Sue, Once again my sputum had been negative for a few sputum test (and then..."
I just started on the first 2 meds (Azithromycin and Ethambutol) of the Big 3 and will begin Rifampin in 5 days. If you don't mind my asking: what negative side affects did you have and how long were you on it? I have been extremely anxious about starting this treatment and also question is anyone really going to permanantly eliminate this disease from our bodies? I can't live in a bubble in order to cure this and I read all the ups and downs people go through mentally. Trying to stay positive but it is very overwhelming.
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Oh Carolyn, I feel for you! I never had the elation of a negative culture, but I too will not do the antibiotics again, I was WAY too miserable.
If I was in your situation, I would dig into the current research on when to treat, and additional alternative treatments to add to my airway clearance. Also, maybe to ask your ID doc if there are any clinical trials you would qualify for?
I will be waiting to hear what you and the doctor figure out.
Sue