Four years with Bronchiectasis, no major systems.

Posted by Dianaf @playadelcarmen, Oct 30, 2023

My lungs are getting worse per CTs. Pulmonologist gave me vest, to use twice a day. I am 77 years old, no major symptoms, ache in chest, after three flights have to regroup to proceed. Bronchoscopy showed nothing. Should I go to an infectious disease Doctor, while I can still go to my Zumba class.
I feel I should be doing more than maintaining when lungs are getting worse. Thank you all, I have gotten so much from this site.

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scoop | @scoop | Nov 1, 2023

@playadelcarmen The top pulmonary centers suggest:

compressor
https://www.saveritemedical.com/products/ombra-120v-table-top-nebulizer-compressor-system?_pos=1&_psq=ombre&_ss=e&_v=1.0
nebulizer
https://www.saveritemedical.com/products/monaghan-aeroeclipse-xl-breath-actuated-nebulizer-ban?_pos=4&_psq=aero&_ss=e&_v=1.0
alternate nebulizer
https://www.saveritemedical.com/products/lc-sprint-reusable-nebulizer-set
PEP device
https://www.saveritemedical.com/products/aerobika-opep-oscillating-positive-expiratory-pressure-therapy-system
7% saline
prescription from doctor - or - purchase through Amazon (search this site as others have sourced it through Amazon etc)

melinda561 | @melinda561 | Nov 1, 2023

Lean about the airway clearance techniques listed above. So important for maintaining our health. I hope you are now under care of doctor who specializes in bronchiectasis (BC). I was under the care of a pulmonologist for years which is why my condition worsened by the time I found a specialist. Sterile 3or 7 percent saline can be purchased on Amazon but may be less expensive if your doctor orders it through your pharmacy. Another consideration is pulmonary rehab which will also teach you the breathing exercises to expel mucous. I had to watch and learn techniques on You Tube. I hope this helps. There is so much helpful information on this site for you.

cavlover | @cavlover | Nov 2, 2023

Welcome,
I have Bronchiectisis. Infections can cause it to get worse so it’s important to do Air Clearance and take precautions to avoid them.

Also chronic pulmonary aspiration such as GERD can cause Bronchiectasis to worsen even if there is no infection.

AZ | @equanimous | Nov 2, 2023

I would consider getting a second opinion, just to be sure. Airway clearance is an essential part for us with bronchiectasis. Here is a helpful link that will provide you with airway clearance information: https://bronchiectasis.com.au/resources/airway-clearance-videos

Wishing you the best of luck.

Dianaf | @playadelcarmen | Nov 2, 2023

Wow, I have learned more from all you beautiful people, in one week, than in 4 years with my pulmonologist. He just gave me a compression vest, and as CT showed lungs worse, told me to use more often. I am 77, not ready to sit with a vest on all day. Thank You all, I am overwhelmed with emotions.