Can I still cycle while on omeprazole with LPR & MAC?

Hello aerogirl, I take omeprazole and famotidine to help with acid reflux symptoms and when combined, I have few to no problems with reflux. I don't eat at least three hours before I go to sleep and I monitor things like chocolate and tomatoes . . . foods that have caused trouble for me in the past. I eat them but not at night. It's pretty much under control though I do have concerns about using both of these drugs together over time.

I, too, was a cyclist. I was never competitive and never did long trips but generally cycled 13-16 miles five or so days per week. I can't do it now; I don't have the lung capacity. I had my upper left lung lobe removed last June and am on the three antibiotics currently. Really no ability to breathe that deeply without needing to stop and recover. It has never occurred to me that cycling habit/activity contributed to MAC lung disease but I suppose that's possible. As far as quitting, boy, if I had the capacity I'd be on that bike. I hope the cycling didn't contribute and you can continue because it sure is fun. My best to you.

Thanks for your reply bestselfever. As we know, exercise is good for our lungs, but I guess the downward slant when on a road bike is the problem, especially if reflux may be involved. I've always believed cycling helped me to stay healthy, so it's hard to now imagine it being part of the problem. I've stopped drinking coffee and am riding two hours after a meal, so hoping that helps. Since taking the omeprazole and famotidine I've noticed less phlegm, possibly better breathing... surprised me that reflux can produce asthma symptoms. Glad to know your symptoms are controlled. So sorry you've had to give up the bike (for now!), but your answer showed you understand the joy of it. Hoping you are tolerating the 3 meds well and that the coming year holds great improvement! Thanks for your thoughts - best back to you.

I am really curious about the explanation for the reason cycling may be detrimental, did the doctor explain?
I would think that if cycling is a problem, any vigorous exercise could likewise detrimental, and that is new to me on this forum.

As for your question about avoiding the 3 drug treatment protocol, what other measures are you using for control? Most of us who are active (i.e. vocal) here use some form of daily airway clearance. In my case, a combination of nebulizing 7% saline, 2 inhalers and daily coughing has kept my MAC under control for over 2 years, with only a single exacerbation.

What are you using to control symptoms?
Sue

Hi Sue, The explanation I was given regarding cycling is that someone who may be experiencing silent reflux (LPR) could expose a vulnerable (bronchiectasis in this case) lung to refluxed stomach contents that could include mycobacteria. In the case of a morning bike ride, it's typically after coffee and breakfast, then the downward position assumed on a road bike along with the use of abdominal muscles, lends itself to reflux. As mentioned previously, because I feel so strongly about the value of my cycling, I've changed my routines around coffee and meals close to ride time, rather than give up riding.
I was diagnosed with MAC/bronchiectasis in 2011 and began Aerobika and 7% saline in 2016. I do so twice a day. After exercise I can really cough stuff up IF I lay on my back. Besides an often times irritated feeling in my bronchial area, I feel quite good and can be very active. Tests had been stable until recently when lung function, CT, and sputum culture worsened. One small area on the CT showed what could become cavitary. 🙁
I'd seen a few comments on this forum about other doctors who prescribe intermittent antibiotics rather than "the 3," and that made me curious.

I would just like to point out that there are more options for cycling than road bikes. I have had verigo for many years, and ride a trail bike with upright handlebars. Several of my friends and neighbors ride recumbent bikes. All are great exercise, and avoid the pressure that might increasemreflux.
Have you considered a different style of bike?
Sue

Yes, I have, and may need to go that route eventually.

You might want to consider it sooner rather than later, since GERD and bronchiectasis both are permanent conditions that won't be going away. My only recommendation is that you visit a large shop that has many different bikes to try - upright cycling is very different, and it took me 3 bikes, 4 seats and 2 extra sets of handlebars to find the comfortable combination.
Sue

@aerogirl, I can perfectly understand the reluctance of giving up an activity that you love, and in normal circumstances is great for your health both mentally and physically. When I read your post, I immediately thought about the picture fellow MAC member and mentor @windwalker used in her member spotlight.
- A Breath of Fresh Air: Meet @windwalker https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/newsfeed-post/a-breath-of-fresh-air-meet-windwalker/

She's not winning road races, but she's on her bike. 🙂

I also found this related article that may have some useful tips, although @bestselfever and @sueinmn covered most of them.
- How To Avoid Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease For Cyclists https://pezcyclingnews.com/toolbox/gastro-esophageal-reflux-disease-in-cyclists/

Here's hoping you can get back on and stay on your bicycle!

Hello Aerogirl, I also went to Dr Huitt and she believes my Mac is caused by silent reflux too. Getting the reflux under control will help with the Mac. On another forum someone suggested a good book you can find on AMAZON called the ACID Watcher Diet. It is by Dr Aviv who is the Clinical Director at the Largest US Swallowing Clinic. They said the book was a lifesaver. I just purchased it and am starting the diet.

Hi Sue, I got this Guaifenesin 400 at Costco brand but it got expectorant. Is that ok for mucus. So mucus when I do my neb also stays on my trough and i cough so much. Thanks Cila