Discussions

💙 As a part of Therapeutic Recreation Week, it is recommended to get involved in your local community.  Living with bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease can sometimes feel isolating, but connecting with your community can help build friendships, purpose, and support.  Do make time for connection- other people will learn to understand you over time, and your need to cancel or postpone an event as needed.

✨ Ways to get involved in your local area:

✅ Volunteer with a local nonprofit or community organization

✅ Attend library events, workshops, or book clubs

✅ Participate in community recreation or wellness programs

✅ Visit local parks, community centers, or senior centers

✅ Connect with faith-based or civic organizations

✅ Attend health fairs and community education events

Remember, involvement doesn't have to be big to be meaningful. Whether it's attending a monthly meeting or volunteering for an hour, small connections can make a big difference. Community reminds us that we are stronger together. Every connection is an opportunity to learn, grow, and support one another.  Do you want to share your experience with a community group in your area?

Just joined this group. I was diagnosed with BE a couple of years ago during a hospital stay for pneumonia. That year, I had about 4 bouts of pneumonia which I think contributed to my diagnosis. Prior to that I had coughing when i changed positions in bed or when I had a cold.  I was having lots of coughing and throat clearing at the time of my pneumonias. I think I have silent reflux, which makes it difficult to manage my BE. I’m starting to watch my diet a little more, taking reflux gourmet at night when I need it, and doing hypertonic 3% nebs twice a day. Any suggestions how to manage both issues? I’m 70, 4 grandkids and am pretty active. Thanks. 

☀️ Summer may bring some hot and humid days, but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop by any means! If you're spending time indoors to stay comfortable, it's a great opportunity to explore a new hobby, get creative, or revisit an old favorite. Here are a few places to spark your creativity and keep you engaged:

🎨 Michaels – The largest nationwide arts and crafts retailer, with supplies for painting, knitting, Cricut, floral, framing, and more. Find everything from painting and knitting supplies to Cricut materials, floral crafts, framing, and so much more. https://www.michaels.com/

🧶 Hobby Lobby –A large craft and home décor chain with a wide range of craft materials. Browse a wide selection of arts and crafts supplies, DIY projects, and home décor inspiration. https://www.hobbylobby.com/?msockid=0ca9b0b92ddf6727275ca33b29df6150

 🚂 HobbyTown – Perfect for model kits, RC vehicles, trains, tabletop games, puzzles, and other specialty hobbies.  https://www.hobbytown.com/

Whether you're creating something beautiful, building a model, or simply enjoying a relaxing afternoon with a favorite pastime, staying engaged can make indoor days just as enjoyable.  Do you have a favorite hobby that you would like to share with the community? 💙

Throughout National Therapeutic Recreation Week, we encourage our bronchiectasis and NTM community to look into courses that can improve their quality of life. Self-care means celebrating what I can do today, not comparing it to yesterday. 💙 I may need to pace myself, but indoor courses such as the one below help me stay connected to my personal/professional goals.

Coursera offers hundreds of free online courses across diverse subjects, with options to access course content and, in some cases, earn certificates at no cost. Coursera allows learners to start free courses in two main ways: by previewing the first module of many courses, which includes video lessons, readings, and graded assignments, or by starting a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. Check out the link below if you are interested in learning something new and exciting.  Have you attended any of the Coursera classes?

https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=free

Living with bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease doesn't mean putting fun on hold. Indoor activities can help support physical, mental, and emotional well-being while providing opportunities for relaxation and connection. We are reminded throughout National Therapeutic Recreation Week that staying active indoors can help support strength, flexibility, and overall well-being.

🏡 Indoor Activity Ideas:

✅ Chair yoga or gentle stretching

✅ Deep breathing and mindfulness exercises

✅ Arts and crafts, painting, or coloring

✅ Reading or joining a virtual book club

✅ Puzzles, crosswords, and brain games

✅ Indoor gardening with houseplants or herbs

✅ Cooking or trying a new healthy recipe

✅ Music, dancing, or learning an instrument

✅ Take short walking breaks around your home throughout the day

✅ Stretch gently in the morning or before bed

✅ Try chair exercises or low-impact fitness routines

✅ Use household chores as opportunities to stay active

✅ Set small, realistic movement goals each day

✅ Stay connected through virtual classes or support groups

✅ Listen to your body and pace yourself as needed

Every movement matters. Even a few minutes of activity can make a positive difference in your day.✨ Celebrate what your body can do.  Every activity is a chance to connect, move, create, and recharge. Staying active indoors helps me maintain both my physical and emotional health. It's one of the ways I take care of myself while living with BNTM lung disease. 💙 Which of the above indoor activities brings you joy?

National Therapeutic Recreation Week in 2026 is observed from July 5th to July 11th. National Therapeutic Recreation Week has been celebrated annually since its establishment in 1984 by the National Therapeutic Recreation Society. The week is dedicated to raising awareness of therapeutic recreation programs and services, which aim to improve the health and well-being of individuals with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities. Diversional recreation activities assist us to go forward and to make the best of every day. We encourage our bronchiectasis and NTM community to share recreational activities that help you feel your best. Please comment below.

🌞 July has arrived, kicking off with a very active World Bronchiectasis Day yesterday. As the summer heat rises, so does our commitment to caring for ourselves and one another in the Bronchiectasis and NTM community. For those living with Bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease, rising temperatures can bring extra challenges.

🌞 July Heat & Lung Health Reminders:

💧 Hydrate often, even before you feel thirsty. Staying well hydrated helps thin mucus.

🌤️ Protect your lungs from heat, humidity, and poor air quality.

✔️Avoid outdoor exertion during peak heat (10 am–4 pm). Avoid hot, humid air.

✔️ Check local air quality before going outside; check the dew point numbers.

✔️ Use air conditioning or cooling centers when possible

🌬️ 🩺 Stay consistent with care routines- keep up with airway clearance.💙 Permit yourself to rest as needed

Small daily choices can help protect your lungs during the summer heat. If symptoms increase—more coughing, fatigue, or breathlessness—reach out to your healthcare provider early. Throughout the month, the BNTM Activity Feed will focus on therapeutic recreation ideas, clinical research, and a review of summer weather conditions. Stay cool and stay kind to your body this July. 💙 Here’s to a July filled with strength, gentleness, and resilience.

Hello! As the outdoor temperature rises, so does the chances of getting a heat related illness. Knowing how to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and what to do can protect you and those around you is of utmost importance.The blog article below reviews heat exhaustion, heat stroke and treatments. Please let us know if you have any questions. Keep cool 😎. https://social.bronchandntm.org/articles/blog/Heat-Stroke-and-the-NTM-Bronchiectasis-Patient

Hi Everyone, 

Just wondering if there is a better climate to live in for people with bronchiectasis. I was diagnosed with it 20 years ago. Since then I have gotten Mac and Abscesses. I am clear of the Abscesses but might have Mac again. I grew up in Louisiana but moved to Western Washington 20 years ago. I cough all the time. I can't seem to stop it these days. It is wearing me out. I am exhausted and getting depressed. 

I'm wondering if a change of climate would do me some good. I never liked the weather here. I wonder if New Mexico would be better for me. 

I like to be active and outdoors. I have horses and dogs. I like to bike and hike. 

Any thoughts out there? 

Tomorrow, July 1st, we celebrate World Bronchiectasis Day. As I reflect on this special day, I can't help but think about how much has changed over the last 10 years. A decade ago, hardly anyone had even heard the word bronchiectasis. Many of us felt alone, misunderstood, and searched endlessly for answers. Today, because of patients, caregivers, researchers, physicians, and advocates around the world, there is real momentum—and real hope.

I had the privilege of attending the recent World Bronchiectasis Conference in Germany virtually. Listening to the brilliant presentations from experts across the globe reminded me that we are living in an exciting time. The passion, collaboration, and dedication to improving our lives were inspiring.

This year marks the 5th World Bronchiectasis Day, and more than 30 organizations around the world are coming together to raise awareness and give a stronger voice to our community.

Just think about how far we've come. 

We have increased awareness around the world. We have a growing network of specialized Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Centers throughout the United States. We now have Brinsupri, the first medication developed specifically for bronchiectasis. And for the first time, we're even seeing television commercials on bronchiectasis, featuring Ty Pennington reminding people that our lungs are the foundation of our health—just as the foundation is to a home.

I hope you are feeling well today. If not, I want you to hold on to Hope, realizing that more research is underway and many new treatments are around the corner. I made it through some of my most difficult respiratory challenges. Believe that better days are possible. You are stronger than you think, and you are not walking this journey alone.

Research is moving forward. New treatments are on the horizon. Together, we are building a future where bronchiectasis is recognized earlier, treated better, and one day, perhaps even prevented. I hope you'll be able to join one or more of the World Bronchiectasis Day events tomorrow as we continue to raise awareness, support one another, and look toward an even brighter future. https://social.bronchandntm.org/events
Happy World Bronchiectasis Day Eve! :) 

World Bronchiectasis Day is one week away! Help us spread awareness on social media. Visit our profile on Facebook or LinkedIn, where you can scroll through recent posts. Click like, comment, and share to increase visibility and inform your friends and family about the impact of this chronic lung condition. 

You can also sign up to receive our free toolkit, which includes images and descriptions you can post on your own social media account. Simply download the graphics, then copy and paste the text into your social media post.

The toolkit also includes information about World Bronchiectasis Day events, including free webinars hosted by the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association, along with our global partners. Learn more about symptom management, nutrition, and more while connecting with the worldwide bronchiectasis community. 

Fill out this form to receive the free World Bronchiectasis Day 2026 toolkit in your email inbox: https://copdf.co/WBD-toolkit  

June is National Safety Month! One important way you can stay safe is by making sure you're prepared for an emergency. Disaster preparedness is extra important when you have a chronic lung condition. You may have to consider access to medications and other medical needs, as well as essentials such as food and water. Do you have a plan in place to stay safe and look after your lung health during a disaster?

Check out the Disaster Preparedness Plan booklet, which walks you through the process of planning for a natural disaster. It also includes handy resources including a page to organize emergency contact information, a list of questions to ask your doctor, and checklists for packing "go" and "stay" kits with everything you'll need in case of an emergency.

Hello, Can you share where we can find the webinar recordings? I'm interested in listening to the topic on medications again. Thank you very much!

Living with bronchiectasis, NTM lung disease, or other chronic respiratory conditions can take a significant mental and emotional toll. Many men report dealing with isolation, anxiety about breathing symptoms, treatment fatigue, loss of physical capacity, and concerns about work or family responsibilities. Too often, men feel pressure to "push through" in silence. But mental health is just as important as lung health.

If you're living with bronchiectasis or NTM: ✅ Talk openly about how you're feeling ✅ Stay connected with supportive people ✅ Celebrate small victories and progress

Seek help from a mental health professional if needed. For counseling, support groups, and mental health education, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers information on most mental health challenges: https://www.nami.org/

When searching for a therapist, consider looking for someone with experience in: Chronic illness, Health anxiety, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for chronic disease. Psychology Today’s support group locator -use this filter to find a professional in your area.   https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/co/denver.  You have to enter your state's ZIP code.

Your mental well-being matters, and you don't have to face this journey by yourself. How do you get the most support from others? Do you feel understood by family and friends on challenging days, such as a flare-up?

Why Do So Many Men Put Off Going to the Doctor?

Many men delay or avoid healthcare visits, often waiting until symptoms become serious. While it may seem harmless to "wait it out," postponing care can lead to missed early detection, worsening chronic conditions, higher treatment costs, and a reduced quality of life.

Common reasons men delay healthcare include:

🔹 Cultural and Social Pressures – Seeking medical help is sometimes viewed as a sign of weakness, causing men to ignore symptoms or push through pain.

🔹 Stigma Around Vulnerability – Discussing personal or sensitive health concerns can feel uncomfortable, leading some men to avoid appointments altogether.

🔹 Perceived Lack of Urgency – Many believe health concerns can be addressed "later," even when early intervention could make a significant difference.

🔹 Time and Access Barriers – Busy work schedules, family responsibilities, insurance challenges, and difficulty navigating the healthcare system can make routine care feel overwhelming.

🔹 Discomfort with Healthcare Settings – Doctor visits, paperwork, waiting rooms, and discussing personal issues can feel intimidating, especially without an established primary care provider.

🔹 Financial Concerns – Costs such as co-pays, deductibles, or lack of insurance may discourage men from seeking care.

🔹 Underestimating Health Risks – Many chronic conditions develop gradually with few noticeable symptoms, making regular checkups essential for early detection.

The good news? Small steps can make a big difference. Regular checkups, preventive screenings, and open conversations about health can help men stay healthier and catch problems before they become serious. Your health is worth the time. Don't wait for symptoms to become a crisis.

How are you going to encourage a family member or a friend to seek healthcare? Sharing your suggestions may help another member of this community. 💙

Welcome, June 💛June brings longer days and warmer light — but it also brings us another chance to heal and to hold space for one another. Sometimes it’s in the way we keep showing up, even on the hard days. It’s in the courage to share our stories, knowing someone out there will feel less alone because of it.

A fresh month, a fresh chapter begins. Throughout the month,we will focus on the following topics:

We’re walking into June together — and that makes all the difference. Let’s fill these days with sunshine and moments that make our hearts smile. What’s one hope you’re carrying into this month? Please share it below so we can cheer you on. 😍

Do you feel misunderstood by friends and family since you look good?  The blog article below, Facing The Challenges of NTM Lung Disease , may give your friends and family better insight into what you are dealing with. The blog article contains information about the diagnosis, treatment options, and preventive strategies. Please let us know if you have any questions.

You are invited to take part in a short survey to help us better understand how people with chronic lung conditions navigate Medicare and access treatments.

Your insights will help us:

• Identify what’s working well
• Better understand common challenges
• Create tools and resources that truly support your needs

Whether you feel confident navigating Medicare or still have questions, your perspective matters.

Together, we can build solutions that make accessing care simpler and more supportive.

If you are 18+ and diagnosed with COPD, bronchiectasis, and/or NTM lung disease, take the survey now.

Hi everyone - just joined.  I have had Bronchiectasis for almost 10 years.  Over the past 3, I've been medicated 4 times for flares which resulted in recurrent C Diff.  After a year of daily Vancomycin my ID doc decided to stop.  Since stopping I've had a lot of gut issues - bloating, loss stools, gas and a lot of discomfort.  Wondering if anyone shares this experience and if so, has anything helped?  Thank you so much.  Also working with a Gastro on SIBO testing and will know those results soon.

Has anyone purchased an under mattress wedge to help with nighttime acid reflux? It seems it might work better than a wedge pillow.

Sleep is essential for healing and for functioning on a daily basis. Simple daily tasks, such as meal preparation, bathing and other activiites of daily living require menatl and physical energy. We do not have the energy if we are sleep deprived.The article below reviews specialists who assist individuals with sleep disorders You've Done Everything Right. So Why Are You Still Not Sleeping? - National Sleep Foundation

Multiple CTs have shown possible NTM MAI but every bronchoscopy and sputum labs have been negative. I have had the fundiplication Ctiff surgery, 4 sinus procedurbues and continue to have heavy thick sputum daily with non-stop coughing. I use 7% sodium to nebulize and when necessary Acetylcysteine with Albuterol. I also take Brinsupri (just started a few weeks ago). I was diagnosed with with Bronchiectasis in 2016 and have struggled for years. Any suggestions/ideas what/where I can find help/answers.

Sleep is an essential part of the healing process. Sleep provides restoration within our bodies. It impacts our ability to perform our daily tasks such as airway clearance, treatments, preparation of highly dense nutritious foods , energy to exercise and so much more. The blog article below reviews the basics of sleep, including the different phases of the sleep cycle. Please share your experiences and tips for a better night’s sleep with the community. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/150/Sleep-and-Healing-for-NTMBronchiectasis-Patients