Discussions

BAE (Bronchial Artery Embolization

July 15, 2026

1 164

Hi! I'm 82. Have had bronchiectasis for probably 40 years. Hemoptysis 4 times: 2009, 2017, 2026 (2 x's). Am considering – seriously – BAE (Broncial Artery Embolization) and would LOVE to hear from anyone with experience with this procedure. I had a consult today with a UNC Interventional Radiologist who would perform the BAE.

Latest Activity: July 17, 2026

Replies

Ksmiles123

Hello Gretchen,

I am glad you reached out with this important question. I am curious about how much blood did you cough up with your four episodes?

Bronchial artery embolization has become mainstay therapy for many patients with both acute massive hemoptysis and chronic hemoptysis from a variety of causes. While this procedure can be lifesaving, recurrence and complications can occur.

I don’t know anyone who has been through this procedure. Have you asked your doctor about the number/ volume of cases UNC does each year and their success rates?

Latest Activity: July 15, 2026

Comments

Emex56

Hi everyone, I'm Emex56, please this haemoptysis affect me anytime I come out in the cold weather or air-conditioned office, mall or room or just 1minute inhalation of cool breezy wind air or even on mild to moderate exertion like climbing staircase normal pace or little faster; all these will instantly induce haemoptysis;

If I rush and start nebulization with albuterol solutions and sodium chloride solutions; I will start getting relief and gradually the haemoptysis will start declining and sputum changing from bloody to less bloody.

Honestly the situation make to be afraid of coming out to attend events, or to go anywhere. I stay indoors to avoid haemoptysis. Please I need advice on what to do to neutralize these haemoptysis triggers permanently and be able to live slightly good quality of life before I die. Thank you all as I wait for responses.

I also have phlegm coughing out 24/7 color light greenish with bad offensive odour.

My health care provider did laboratory test sputum culture etc and antibiotics prescribed but once I start taking the antibiotics the odour declines, sputum frequency reduces I feel better but once I completed the antibiotics, one week time the whole symptoms are back; bad odour, plenty voluminous phlegm, etc

Please, what will I do? Solutions please my friends. Ideas please

Latest Activity: July 17, 2026

Ksmiles123

Emex 56,

Hello! I am sorry to read about your current situation, dealing with Hemoptysis and respiratory infections. Are you being evaluated by a specialist who truly understands bronchiectasis and NTM infections? What type of sputum culture do they do? There are different types of sputum tests. Do you have to wait weeks for the results?

You may need to take different antibiotics to help clear your infection. Clearing your infection may lead to less coughing up blood. Where do you currently reside? We have BNTM Care Centers throughout many parts of the USA. These centers offer comprehensive care and expertise for BNTM patients.

Latest Activity: July 17, 2026

Ksmiles123

Below is information on the BNTM Care Center Network: https://www.bronchandntm.org/For-Patients/Find-Care-and-Support/Care-Center-Network/General-Information

Latest Activity: July 17, 2026

It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We make every effort to support our members, our medical professionals cannot and will not provide a diagnosis or suggest a specific medication; those decisions should be left to your personal medical team. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with COPD, please consult a physician before making changes to your own COPD management plan.

Community posts are monitored by the 360social Community Manager, as well as staff respiratory therapists, educators, and other medical professionals.