Activity Feed
BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member Corrine T who
joins 5,535 current members of our community.
We're glad you're here!
Activity Feed
Robin,
Hello! Gut issues are common post-antibiotics. I am glad to read that Pantoprazole is helping you with your symptoms. Being under the care of a GI doctor or a great Primary Care Provider while on PPIs is of utmost importance. Are you interested in seeing a registered dietician as well? Dieticians can review trigger foods, and perhaps assist you in eventually weaning off or lowering the PPI usage in the future.
Ellen,
Hello! Welcome to the community! Are you currently seeing a registered dietician who understands your gut issues? Many insurance plans now cover dieticians with a copay. I would suggest getting a referral from your GI doctor after your breath test results come in. Try to avoid gassy foods, such as high-carbohydrate foods, especially in the evening. Have you heard or researched the low FODMAP diet? This diet can be confusing and overwhelming with all of the restrictions, but a Registered Dietitian can guide you through it.
Great new site...
I am also new, and have had the same issues. Believe it or not, Pantaprazole has really helped my gut issues.
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.
Hello! May is Allergy & Asthma Awareness Month 💙💚
For those in the BNTM community, allergies and asthma symptoms can add another layer of challenge to everyday breathing, energy, and overall wellness. Seasonal pollen, environmental irritants, smoke, dust, fragrances, and changes in air quality may all affect respiratory health and increase inflammation or coughing in some patients.
This month is a reminder to:
🌿 Pay attention to triggers
🌿 Keep rescue and maintenance medications available for use as needed
Practice good airway clearance routines
🌿 Monitor indoor air quality
🌿 Rest when your body needs it
🌿 Reach out for support if symptoms change
Most importantly, remember that every breath matters — and small daily steps toward protecting lung health can make a meaningful difference over time. To all BNTM patients, caregivers, and families: you are seen, supported, and stronger than you know. 💙
Janh,
Thank you for reporting positive news on Brinsupri. I am so happy to read that you are breathing better.
I like Katie's idea or the under-mattress wedge. Seems like if you use a wedge pillow, you may have the tendency to roll off of it on occasion.
That's great news! Many will appreciate your feedback.
The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association website has a fresh new look with the same amazing information and a refreshed design that is easier to navigate and explore!
Be sure to check out our Events Calendar for the latest list of activities taking place in honor of World Bronchiectasis Day. New events will be added as they are scheduled, so remember to check back often. https://social.bronchandntm.org/events
Hi Janh,
Have you tried a huff cough? This technique keeps your glottis open and can help you achieve a deeper, more effective cough. Here is the page that walks you through how to perform this maneuver:
Please let me know if you have any questions.
The new website and community platform look AMAZING!!! Thank you to our incredible IT team for a job well done!
Pam,
One has to try these pillows and decide which one is best, most stable for them. Have you considered an adjustable bed? My adjustable bed works wonders for me. Mattress stores usually have sales several times each year.
Hello! Have you seen an Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor for your post nasal drip?
Yes currently on antibiotics I think the Nebulizers is getting my sinuses drainage and I have post nasal drip
Janh
Hello! Are you on antibiotics? Have you had a sputum culture recently?
My issue is constantly coughing up yellow mucus that sits in my throat I don’t cough deep it’s just constantly there. It is worst when I eat and talk any suggestions would be appreciated
Has anyone purchased an under mattress wedge to help with nighttime acid reflux? It seems it might work better than a wedge pillow.
Wishing everyone a lovely Mother's Day weekend!
I am so excited to witness this new chapter unfold for the BNTM community. This new site will provide updated educational materials to empower you on your journey. We are here to support you on each step along the way. We are the BNTM family. :)
Big things are happening at Bronchiectasis and NTM 360social! 🎉
Our brand-new community experience is beginning to roll out, and we’re so excited for you to see what’s ahead. Over the coming days, you may notice a few changes, updates, and adjustments as we continue fine-tuning everything behind the scenes to help things run as smoothly as possible.
Like any fresh new beginning, there may be a few bumps along the way while we get settled in — but every update is designed with our community in mind. We’re building a space that’s easier to explore, more welcoming to connect in, and better equipped to support conversations, education, encouragement, and shared experiences for everyone impacted by bronchiectasis and NTM.
This community has always been about more than a website. It’s about the people who make it feel like home. 💙
Thank you for your patience, your excitement, and for growing alongside us as we step into this next chapter together. We can’t wait for you to experience all the new features, fresh updates, and opportunities to connect that are on the way.
The future of Bronchiectasis and NTM 360social is taking shape — and we’re so glad you’re part of it.
Hello! Happy Mother’s Day weekend to all mothers who are currently dealing with Bronchiectasis/ NTM. This journey can be challenging- we are here to support you on each step of the way. May your child/ children continue to inspire you to stay with your treatment plan so you can live the best quality of life possible. Enjoy this special weekend. 💐
🌷 Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms, bonus moms, caregivers, daughters, grandmas, chosen family members, and the people who step in with love exactly when it’s needed most. 💙
In the Bronchiectasis and NTM community, caring for someone can mean a lot of things… helping with treatments, keeping track of medications, cheering someone on through a tough flare, or becoming an expert at hearing “the nebulizer is done!” from the other room. 😄
Some of the strongest people we know are the ones quietly showing up every single day with patience, encouragement, and a comforting voice during the hard moments.
This weekend we celebrate every person who nurtures, supports, advocates, listens, and helps carry the weight when breathing feels heavy.
And for anyone missing their mom, remembering someone special, or carrying mixed emotions today, we’re thinking of you too. 🌸
Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at BronchandNTM360social
— and may your weekend include laughter, restful moments, supportive company, and at least one treatment session that cooperates without beeping halfway through. 😄
Hello! As Mother’s Day is approaching, I thought I would share an article with you about raising a child when you have Bronchiectasis/ NTM
Please let me know if you have any questions. Katie
😕
How Communities Can Help Women’s Mental Health:
It is not just up to women to take care of their own mental health; it’s up to the whole community. Social groups may help by the following tips: helping people learn how to deal with stress.Making safe places for people to vent about their challenges.Encouraging people to get frequent checkups that look at their mental health .
Getting Rid Of The Stigma Around Women’s Mental Health- Stigma is one of the main problems women have to deal with. A lot of women don’t ask for help because they’re afraid of being judged or called “weak.” Women’s Mental Health Month asks us to break down these walls by making therapy, counseling, and talking about mental health more common.Talking about mental health publicly helps women understand that they are not alone and that help is accessible.Take control of your mental health right now. Together, we can achieve a healthy future for women everywhere. Awareness months raise awareness, but true change happens when mental health is a focus year-round.A woman’s mental health treatment should be equivalent to her physical health care. By increasing awareness, promoting early intervention, and providing support to women throughout their lives, we can establish a more supportive and healthier future.
It’s National Nurses Week! Today we salute nursing professionals around the world, whose care, compassion, and commitment make a difference in people's lives every single day.
Join us in thanking the nursing community for all that they do—offering comfort in the hardest moments, advocating for their patients’ needs, administering life-saving care, and so much more. We are so thankful for these health care heroes!
Hello! Today is World Asthma Day. Many respiratory symptoms overlap with Bronchiectasis. Below is information on the different types of asthma: https://asthma.net/basics/classifications
Today is World Asthma Day. Below is information on the different types of asthma: https://asthma.net/basics/classifications
Today is World Asthma Day. Many respiratory symptoms overlap with Bronchiectasis. I have intermittent asthma and use an inhaler as needed. My asthma is mostly impacted by the weather. Do you have asthma as well as Bronchiectasis?
🎉🌮 Cinco de Mayo Vibes on Bronchiectasis & NTM 360Social! 🌮🎉
Today’s a great excuse to add a little color, a little rhythm, and a little joy to the day—whatever that looks like for you. 💃🕺
Maybe it’s a favorite meal, some music you love, a cozy moment with a pet, or just a chance to pause and enjoy where you are right now. Every version of “celebrating” counts. 💛
💬 Let’s make it fun:
What’s adding a little flavor to your day today?
Whether it’s something festive or something simple, we’d love to hear. And if today is more “rest and recharge” than “fiesta,” that’s just as worth celebrating. 🎈
CT findings can sometimes suggest NTM/MAI even when cultures stay negative. It might be worth discussing with your pulmonologist about repeat sputum testing over time or a referral to a bronchiectasis/NTM specialty center for a second opinion.
🚀✨ May the 4th Be With You… and may your lungs find a little extra ease today. 💙
Happy Star Wars Day, Bronchiectasis & NTM community!
Some days feel like a calm cruise through the galaxy… and others feel more like you’re dodging asteroids just to get through the day. If today’s one of those tougher ones, just know—taking it slow, listening to your body, and getting through it your way is more than enough.
Let’s have a little fun with it…
🌬️ Jedi-Level Breathing & Airway Clearance: Whether it’s your routine, your vest, or your go-to technique—finding that steady rhythm can feel a lot like tapping into the Force. One step, one breath at a time.
🚶♂️ No Hyperspace Required: Energy can come and go—so whether today is a “do a little” or a “rest and recharge” kind of day, both count.
🧰 Your Tools = Your Lightsaber: Nebulizers, inhalers, airway clearance devices—these are part of your toolkit to keep things moving and help you feel your best.
🧠 Trust Your Body’s Signals: You know your baseline. If something feels off, it’s okay to pause, adjust, or reach out to your care team.
And let’s be real for a second…
Even Darth Vader needed a pretty advanced setup to help him breathe 😄
💬 Now for the fun part:
If you had a Star Wars sidekick for your lung health journey, who would you pick?
🧙♂️ Yoda for calm, steady guidance?
🤖 R2-D2 to keep everything running smoothly?
🐾 Chewbacca for strength on the tough days?
👑 Leia for resilience and leadership?
Or someone else entirely?
Drop it below—we’d love to hear!
However today looks for you, we’re glad you’re here. Take it at your pace, find your moments, and keep doing what works for you.
🌟 The Force is strong with you!
May is National Clean Air Month. As you may know, air quality can have a big impact on health and well-being when you have bronchiectasis, NTM lung disease, or other chronic lung conditions. Studies show that air pollution increases the risk of exacerbations, causing day-to-day symptoms to become worse.
Everything from wildfires to vehicle emissions impacts the quality of the air we breathe. To navigate air pollution and protect your lungs, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
✨Monitor the air quality where you live. Resources like AirNow.gov can show you the current air quality for your zip code and predict what the air quality will be like over the next few days.
✨When the air quality is bad, try to stay indoors. Save outdoor activities for good air quality days.
✨If you do go outside on bad air quality days, wearing an N95 mask can help prevent pollutants like dust and smoke from getting inside your airways.
✨Outdoor air quality can affect indoor air quality as well. Consider using a HEPA air purifier inside to keep the air in your home clean and fresh.
If you have any experiences navigating air quality, feel free to share them in the comments!
Hello! Throughout May, health organizations, community
groups, and advocates work to spread the word about mental health issues that
affect women. Why Women’s Mental Health Needs More Attention: Men and women can
both have mental health problems, but studies reveal that women are more likely
to have particular problems because of a mix of hormones, life events, and
social norms. Some important reasons to pay attention to women’s mental health
are: Biological factors: Changes in hormones during menstruation, pregnancy,
after giving birth, and menopause might impact how you feel and how stable your
emotions are. Life roles: several women have to juggle several duties, like
employment, taking care of children, and caring for others, which can make them
feel burned out. Social pressures: Women typically face additional stress due to societal expectations regarding looks, success, and
family life.
Women are almost twice as likely as men to have anxiety and
depression, which makes them more likely to have problems. Women’s Mental
Health Month gives people a chance to talk about these issues, fight stigma,
and make it easier to access mental health care.
Hello! Throughout the month of May, health organizations, community groups, and advocates work to spread the word about mental health issues that affect women.Why Women’s Mental Health Needs More Attention: Men and women can both have mental health problems, but studies reveal that women are more likely to have particular problems because of a mix of hormones, life events, and social norms.Some important reasons to pay attention to women’s mental health are:Biological factors: Changes in hormones during menstruation, pregnancy, after giving birth, and menopause might impact how you feel and how stable your emotions are.Life roles: several women have to juggle several duties, like employment, taking care of children, and caring for others, which can make them feel burned out.Social pressures: Women typically have to deal with extra stress because of what society expects of them in terms of looks, success, and family life.
Women are almost twice as likely as men to have anxiety and depression, which makes them more likely to have problems.Women’s Mental Health Month gives people a chance to talk about these issues, fight stigma, and make it easier for people to get mental health care.Why Women’s Mental Health Month Is Important: It’s not enough to just be aware when it is Women’s Mental Health Month; you have to do something about it. It makes us remember to:Talk about mental health without shame to get people to do it.Teach women how to spot the early indicators of mental health problems.Encourage them to take care of themselves, handle stress, and get treatment as needed.
Hello! May is Mental Health Awareness Month.Living with bronchiectasis and NTM can ask a lot of you — physically, emotionally, and mentally. The appointments, medications, uncertainty, fatigue, and daily routines can be exhausting in ways others may not always see nor understand .Taking care of your mental health is part of taking care of your lungs. A few examples of good self care include asking for support, resting without guilt, talking with someone who understands, or simply giving yourself credit for getting through a hard day. Your strength is not only in how much you push through, but also in how well you care for yourself. Please make space for peace, hope and regular rewards for all of your self maintenance activities. Be good to yourself throughout this month and beyond. We are here to support you on your journey.
Hello! Welcome to the month of May! May is my favorite month of the year- perfect temperatures, not too hot , not too cool. This weather is easier breathing for most people unless you are impacted by severe allergies/ asthma . April showers are behind us, budding flowers surround us. Throughout the month, we will focus on the following topics: Asthma and allergies, Women’s Health including women’s mental health, a review of the Multidisciplinary Health Care Team utilized by BNTM individuals and communicating effectively with this team of specialists. Lastly, we will discuss the joys of Summer Travel and some precautions that are recommended . I wish you a wonderful month ahead! Please reach out if you have any specific questions on any of these topics.
I was also wondering does anyone cough a lot when talking this is affecting my social life
Not good I was wondering I have lots of sinus post nasal drip which makes me cough died Antonella’s have these issues
Hello everyone!
Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break is Thursday, May 07, 2026 @ 2:30pm EST. We moved the May Coffee Break up a week so it wouldn’t conflict with the NTMir Patient Conference May 13-14.
Dr. Shelby MacRae, MD, Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine- Pulmonary/Critical Care at the LSUHSC School of Medicine, returns this month to discuss effective communication with your doctors and when to escalate care. https://www.medschool.lsuhsc.edu/DOM/Sections/Pulmonary-CC/faculty/shelby_macrae.aspx
We will open the call fifteen minutes early, so please join us if you wish to speak casually with us or other community members. Any health-related discussion will be held until the start of the meeting.
The meeting registration link is here:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZclcuusrDMpG9PrF3BDUA2nw2csTkQsg7EG#/registration
Looking forward to seeing you soon!
Dear Friend of the COPD Foundation,
Looking for an easy way to support the COPD Foundation? Donating your vehicle is a straightforward process designed to make giving simple and stress-free: Start your donation online or by phone - Complete a secure form or speak with a vehicle donor support representative. Schedule your free vehicle pick-up - Your vehicle is picked up at a time that works for you - at no cost. Receive your donation receipt - Once your vehicle is sold, you'll receive documentation for your tax records. Cars, trucks, RVs, boats, motorcycles, and more are accepted - whether they're running or not. Your vehicle donation helps support the programs and services that power our mission. Start Your Vehicle Donation.
Thank you for making a difference in every breath.
Warm regards, Jean Wright, M.D., MBA, CEO.
🎤 Honesty Day… and a little real talk for our BNTM community
With bronchiectasis or NTM, things don’t always show up the same way every day. Some days feel manageable… and others can sneak up on you.
And if we’re being honest?
Sometimes it’s easier to say “I’m fine” than to explain everything that’s really going on.
But today’s a good day to try something different.
💬 Being honest with your care team
➡ “My cough has been more frequent.”
➡ “I’m more fatigued than usual.”
➡ “This flare feels different than the last one.”
💬 Being honest with your routine
➡ “I’ve been skipping airway clearance—I need to get back on track.”
➡ “I’m feeling overwhelmed with treatments today.”
💬 Being honest with the people around you
➡ “I need to slow things down today.”
➡ “I want to be there, but I may need to step away and rest.”
💬 And maybe the toughest one… being honest with yourself
➡ “This is a hard day.”
➡ “I’m doing the best I can—and that counts.”
Honesty doesn’t mean you’re falling behind—it means you’re paying attention. And with BNTM, that awareness can make a real difference in how you manage symptoms and care for yourself.
💬 Let’s hear from you:
What’s something you’ve learned to be more honest about on your journey with bronchiectasis or NTM?
Alyssa,
An important point on alcohol. Many individuals enjoy a glass of wine 🍷 in the late evening- Wine can impact the quality of one’s sleep and trigger reflux. It is better to consume a glass of wine earlier in the day if this is possible and fits into your schedule, lifestyle.
I find that stress interfears with my sleep. I will wake up at 2am then it is hard to fall asleep. Things I do to help with sleep are
- Keep a regular sleep schedule (same bedtime and wake time every day).
- Limit screens (phone, TV, computer) 30minutes before bed (ideally 60 minutes).
- Make my room cool, dark, and quiet (I use blackout curtains).
- Avoid caffeine after early afternoon and heavy meals close to bedtime.
- I do a relaxing wind‑down routine like stretching, gentle yoga, or a warm bath.
If you drink alcohol limit it or cut it especially in the evening this is a profound disruptor of sleep!
Welcome, Wajo23! You are in the right place for education and community.
I know several people have already shared some of our resources, but if you are looking for a way to hear from both experts and people living with bronchiectasis, I also recommend checking out our podcast. We release one new episode each month.
If you are interested in a specific topic, please reach out. I would be happy to help and can add your suggestion to my list of future podcast topics. Alyssa@bronchandNTM.org
Hello! The Bronchiectasis Information Sheet below includes the
goals of bronchiectasis treatment, medications, lifestyle changes, and more.
You can share this sheet with your healthcare providers who may not be informed
about your care. Please let us know if you have any questions.
https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/52
Thank you for your interest in Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 educational
library. We have a variety of useful booklets, flyers, and tools to help you
learn more about living with bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease.
Hello! The Bronchiectasis Information Sheet below includes
the goals of bronchiectasis treatment, medications, lifestyle changes, and
more. You can share this sheet with your
healthcare providers who may not be informed about bronchiectasis care. Please
let us know if you have any questions.
https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/52
Thank you for your interest in Bronchiectasis and NTM 360
educational library. We have a variety of useful booklets, flyers, and tools to
help you learn more about living with bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease.
Hello! The Bronchiectasis Information Sheet includes the goals of bronchiectasis treatment,
lifestyle changes and more. You can share this sheet with your healthcare providers who may not be informed on bronchiectasis care. Please let us know if you have any questions.
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.