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How often do you get CT Chest Scans?
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Oct 23, 2023 | Replies (3)Comment receiving replies
I have MAC, too, but not exactly sure which variety. I have some nodules but they are stable. My doctor is ordering CT scans every three months. I think he want to make sure there are not cavities forming or nodules growing because I have not started any treatment yet since I am non symptomatic. But, should I be worried about having CT scans every three months?
Replies to "I have MAC, too, but not exactly sure which variety. I have some nodules but they..."
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Hi there...My dr. swenson said once a year cause of the radiaton, but.....I personally feel concerned about the lack of frequency about that. a lot can occur in a year. because they compare the previous ct's to current one, to me, its important to keep a more frequent eye on things. He wants sputum samples every 3 to 5 months and I'm sending every three, as well as sending sputum to National Jewish Hospital, where they test the heck out of samples, perhaps more extensively than local places.
Every three months? I'm not qualified to comment on it, but it makes me think that I least want it every six months........there are so many variables in how things are done, it's confusing, mind boggling and every dr has a different slant. since there are so few that even know about our disease, it doesn't leave many to pick from.
i say, follow your gut, do research, and also blog about questions about frequency. the people on this blog are wonderful and will give you honest answers from their own experiences. I have learned all I know from them.....not the doctors...........they have tests that can ascertain what variety you have and it's important to know. sputum samples show that.....how long have you had mac..what area do you live in? do you go to a dr who is VERY familiar with Mac? that is extremely important.........most pulmonologists know very little about it or how to handle it.
I have mycobacteria avium intercellular....there are many different types. this was all ascertained by sputum samples...its a MUST to know what kind you have in my opinion. i tried azithromycin and ethambutol even tho i do not have symptoms. i couldn't tolerate the side effects...so I am doing airway clearance twice a day with 7 percent saline solution for nebulizing, walking at least 20 minutes per day and drinking bottled water not from faucet...there are some common sense precautions to take... no ice....in restaurants ...it lives in soil, water, air its everywhere. I try to be as careful as I can, but not obsess, because that can be extremely anxiety producing. i hope this has helped you.