@dispatchpat Your description of white or clear sputum makes me think that if you have active MAC it is at a very low level.

It also makes me wonder -
Are you nebulizing albuterol, or using an inhaler? I found 2 puffs on the inhaler is just as good as a neb, and adds less liquid to the mix. How much saline are you nebulizing in a day? I have 4ml vials, but I have been given some as large as 15ml - that would be way to much liquid for the lungs.
Is it possible that 7% saline is actually irritating your lungs and causing more mucus production? Some members stepping down to 3%, or alternating the two, is less irritating.

Two other considerations that determine when/whether to treat are the MAC "load" in your body - how much bacteria is found in the culture, and how your lungs look on a CT. This video can be helpful in explaining the decision process.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dw8hVJp1sJU

After using the Big3 for over 18 months, failing to get rid of MAC, and switching to airway clearance with saline, here is my personal point of view. I would need to be shown CT evidence of advanced nodules and/or cavities before I would ever go on the meds again. The effects of the treatment can be rapid and severe, or slow and gradual - but over time the heavy antibiotic regimen takes a toll on the body. It took 2 years after stopping antibiotics to completely regain my lost weight and energy. I still have less stamina than before (of course I am 5 years older😒)

Sue
PS I do 10-15 minutes of airway clearance a day, then walk away. Yes, I do cough stuff up throughout the day, some days more than others, but like you, I get tired of it. You need to decide how much is enough for you.
S