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BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member Alfred Moran who
joins 5,672 current members of our community.
We're glad you're here!
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🐾💙 Happy Friday, everyone! 💙🐶
Today is Take Your Dog to Work Day... although for many of us, our four-legged coworkers have been working from home with us all along! 🐕🐾
Whether they're reminding us it's time for a walk, keeping us company during treatments, supervising our work, or simply curling up beside us when we need a little extra comfort, our pets have a special way of making every day a little brighter. 🐶❤️
As another week comes to a close, we just wanted to say thank you for being such an important part of the Bronch and NTM360social community. 💙 The encouragement, kindness, and support you share with one another make this a place where no one has to face their journey alone.
We hope you have a chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy the weekend—maybe with your favorite furry friend by your side. 🦴☀️
From me and Jasmine, we hope you have a wonderful Friday and an even better weekend! Thank you for letting us be part of your journey! 💙🐾
Both. I was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis in 2012 after my first bout of pneumonia, and I have done great on only inhalers. I worked (and just retired) in an elementary school so caught many germs which has had me having pneumonia 3 times since 2012, but we usually caught it quickly. My MAC diagnosis was surprising since I had been doing great but it appears my fatigue and weight loss this school year was not being 65 years old. I got very ill in April and it ended up being MAC. I am extremely allergic to many antibiotics, etc and am anxious by nature. I really do trust my pulmonologist. I know knowledge helps me to process things. Thanks for reading!
Below is a link on nutrition. https://www.bronchandntm.org/For-Patients/Learn-More/Managing-Symptoms-and-Daily-Living/Nutrition
We will be hosting a special webinar for World Bronchiectasis Day next week, link is below. I hope that you can join us. https://social.bronchandntm.org/events/4
Gale C,
Hello! Welcome to the community. Regarding medications- do you have Bronchiectasis, NTM or both?
I am new to this diagnosis and would love to see how many usually do the medications and what can you suggest for nutrition tips? Any information or places to look on this site would be appreciated. I have not watched all the educational resources yet. Thank you!
In honor of World Bronchiectasis Day on July 1, 64 landmarks across the United States, England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Australia, and New Zealand will illuminate blue to raise awareness of bronchiectasis in the first “BE the Light” campaign.
I am so glad that your mom was able to get you the exercise you needed. Exercise and sports are so good for both our bodies and minds. I used to run long distance track as well until my first major respiratory issue when I was 30. I now walk on good days and I truly believe walking is great therapeutic medicine.
This is a great opportunity to send questions ahead of the session. Remember, knowledge is power! Knowledge enables you to ask the right questions and to work towards achieving the best possible healthcare outcomes.
New event added to the events calendar page! Check it our for a full list!
UNC Bronchiectasis & NTM Care and Research Center WBD Question and Answer Time
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM July 1, 2026 (UTC-05:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)
Details
Join the UNC Bronchiectasis & NTM Care and Research Center for a special Q&A webinar. The team will focus on answering questions submitted in advance.
Please email questions to Karen.Ellis@unchealth.unc.edu by noon on Monday, June 29 so there is time to review and prepare. Questions will not be taken live during the webinar due to time limits, so be sure to send them in as soon as possible.
**If you are unable to attend, the webinar will be recorded and shared with everyone who registers.
As a child with lung issues, low weight and sick often, my hometown country doctor told my mother to take me swimming as often as she could. The summer between 5th and 6th grade, she took me to the pool at least 3 times a week. It changed my life. By the end of summer I had gained weight, got stronger, started playing all sports, and later became a long distance runner. I can't swim laps anymore, but I still use the pool for exercise to help keep my lungs as strong as possible.
Brandon,
Happy Swim a Lap Day! I had never heard of this day of celebration before…
Most of us can swim a lap on our own; however we can swim much farther when we swim together, have some support, a community.
Thinking of my good days and all of the possibilities to feel better keeps me going on bad days. We learn to accept the bad days when we are less productive and we make the best of the good days, embracing them tightly and enjoying each moment.
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
🏊💙 Happy Swim a Lap Day! 💙🏊
Today is Swim a Lap Day, and while not everyone may be heading to a pool, the idea behind it feels especially meaningful.
A lap is simply moving from one side to the other. It doesn't have to be fast. It doesn't have to be perfect. It just means you're still moving forward.
Living with bronchiectasis or NTM can sometimes feel like swimming against the current. There are treatments to keep up with, appointments to attend, questions to ask, and days when things feel more challenging than we'd like.
But here's what I've learned:
Most of us can swim a lap on our own.
Together, we can swim much farther.
That's one of the things that makes this community so special. We celebrate together. We learn from one another. We encourage each other through the tougher days. We share our experiences, our successes, and sometimes our frustrations, knowing there are people here who truly understand.
Every question asked, every story shared, and every word of encouragement helps someone else keep moving forward.
So today, we'd love to hear from you:
💙 What helps keep you going when the water gets a little rough?
Thank you for being part of this community and for helping others along the way. We may all be swimming different laps, but we're stronger when we swim them together.
The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association joins nearly 30 patient advocacy organizations and professional societies around the world in recognizing the fifth annual World Bronchiectasis Day on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. World Bronchiectasis Day serves as a global call to action to increase awareness, improve education, and advance research and care for the hundreds of thousands of people living with bronchiectasis in the United States and more than one million people worldwide.
5644,
You are most welcome! Let us know if you have any other specific questions.
Thank you. Good information.
More information on inhalers in the link below: https://www.bronchandntm.org/For-Patients/Learn-More/Medications-and-Therapies/Medicines
Use a large-droplet showerhead, consider soaking it regularly in bleach to reduce bacteria, and run the exhaust fan to minimize steam inhalation.
Hello! Below is a list of companies that manufacture water filters:
Please check out their websites and let us know if you have a specific question.
Hello! Inhalers certainly work for many patients. Your healthcare provider may order inhalers based on your pulmonary function tests. Inhalers that include steroids/ corticosteroids are immune suppressants. Immune suppressants may increase the risk of getting a respiratory infection. These particular inhalers assist in lowering the inflammation and help patients breathe better. Your healthcare professionals will determine whether the risks of such drugs is less than the benefits of inhalers.
Brandon,
Great post! I used typewriters when I was in college…. if I made an error, I had to start the page over again or use white out ink. We now have access to typing and editing anything on a handheld cellphone.
The one line I would right is :
Learn as much about your health condition so you can determine if everything possible is being done correctly for you in order to live your best quality of life. 😍
Allyssa,
Thank you for posting the upcoming list of events for World Bronchiectasis Day! There are so many valuable educational programs to look forward to. Disease Specific Education empowers patients to ask their healthcare providers detailed questions about their health care plans.
Where would I look to see what others do for shower head replacements or cleaning and drinking water? Thank you!
Get Ready: World Bronchiectasis Day Is Almost Here!
World Bronchiectasis Day (WBD) is on July 1, and we are excited to partner with 30 global organizations to raise awareness about bronchiectasis.
This year, the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association will host three events:
- Bronchiectasis Management: From Guidelines to Patient Care at 12PM ET
- From Flare-Ups to Daily Life: Bronchiectasis Symptom Management at 2PM ET
- Nutrition & Bronchiectasis at 3:30 PM ET
For a full list of events and to register, visit the Events Calendar page. Events can be found under both the Association Events button and the Community Events button, where partner events are featured.
Can anyone explain to me why many of the prescriptions, such as inhalers list as a side effect “upper respiratory infections” or “pneumonia”. Isn’t the reason we are taking these medications to avoid such conditions? Also can anyone tell me what inhalers really works well for them? Insurance doesn’t cover many of them.
⌨️ Happy Typewriter Day, Bronch and NTM 360social!
Long before smartphones, tablets, and laptops, people shared their stories one keystroke at a time on a typewriter.
Every letter mattered.
Every word mattered.
And every page told a story.
Living with bronchiectasis or NTM can sometimes feel a bit like that.
Our journeys aren't written in a single chapter. They're built over time—through appointments, treatments, airway clearance sessions, good days, difficult days, and the countless moments in between. Along the way, we learn, adapt, persevere, and often discover strengths we never knew we had.
One of the most powerful things about this community is that no one has to write their story alone. Every experience shared, every question asked, and every word of encouragement helps someone else turn the page and keep moving forward.
📝 So on this Typewriter Day, we'd love to hear from you:
If you could type one sentence for someone living with bronchiectasis or NTM to read today, what would it say?
Maybe it's something you've learned.
Maybe it's encouragement you wish you'd heard earlier.
Maybe it's a reminder that helps you through challenging days.
We'll start:
"Progress isn't always measured in giant leaps—sometimes it's simply showing up and continuing to write your story."
Now it's your turn. Share your sentence in the comments and let's create a page filled with wisdom, hope, understanding, and encouragement for one another. 💙
⌨️ And just for fun: Did you ever use a typewriter? We'd love to hear your stories—or see a photo if you still have one tucked away somewhere!
Thank you!
I'd vote fries too, but do enjoy a nice crispy onion ring every once in a while.
Thank you for your thorough reply, Katie. I had never heard of this either, but it does make sense. It reminds me of farmer’s lung.
Farmer’s lung is a lung problem caused by breathing in mold from things like hay, straw, or grain. This often happens when working in barns or around dusty, moldy farm materials. Over time, the mold can irritate the lungs and cause symptoms like cough and shortness of breath.
Both caused by repeated inhalation of mold spores that cause irritation and lung infections.
I'm sorry that happened to you! Did the rash go away once you stopped the medication?
I've been trying to add more high-protein, easy dinners to my rotation, and I made Mississippi Pot Roast over the weekend. It was AMAZING! It’s simple to prepare, packed with protein from the chuck roast, and makes great leftovers for meal prep.
I thought I would share it in case you're looking for another easy recipe. Here’s the recipe I used:
High-Protein Mississippi Pot Roast
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb beef chuck roast (trim excess fat if desired)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix (about 1 oz)
- 6–8 pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup juice from the pepperoncini jar
- 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) butter (can reduce slightly to lighten it up)
- Optional: sliced onions or carrots for extra veggies
Directions
- Place the chuck roast in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix evenly over the top.
- Add the pepperoncini peppers and pour in the pepperoncini juice.
- Place the butter on top of the roast (and any optional veggies around it).
- Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4–5 hours, until the meat is very tender and shreds easily.
- Shred the roast with two forks, mix it with the juices in the slow cooker, and serve.
I served it over roasted broccoli and cauliflower and a side of cottage cheese.
What a great analogy! I also prefer fries!
Interesting! I have never heard of this. Following to see if any musicians chime in on this thread. Thanks!
Team French Fries! 🍟
Brandon,
Happy National Onion Day! I love the analogy of onions rings to our daily treatment regime. I prefer French fries over onions. Not to be a negative Nelly, but onions can be an GI/GU irritant for some individuals.
I am working on Vitamin J today- things that bring me Joy. I hope that you and the members of this community have a superb day!
French Fries! Love 'em!
🧅 Happy Onion Ring Day, Bronch and NTM 360social!
It's Monday, and apparently it's National Onion Ring Day — which got me thinking...
Much like an onion ring, life with bronchiectasis or NTM can come with a few layers:
🧅 Airway clearance treatments
🧅 Medications and nebulizers
🧅 Sputum cultures and appointments
🧅 Pulmonary rehab or staying active
🧅 Managing fatigue and symptoms
🧅 Family, friends, and caregivers
🧅 Finding time to enjoy the things that make you smile
Some days those layers can feel overwhelming.
But just like a basket of onion rings, you don't have to tackle everything at once. Sometimes the best thing we can do is focus on one layer, one task, one step at a time.
As we start a new week, what's one thing you're focusing on this week?
💙 Staying consistent with treatments?
💙 Getting outside for a little fresh air?
💙 Making time for rest and recovery?
💙 Checking in with a friend?
💙 Celebrating a small win?
Share below and let's encourage one another. Sometimes the smallest victories are the ones worth celebrating most.
And while we're at it...
🍽️ Monday Poll:
🧅 Onion Rings
🍟 French Fries
🤔 Depends on the day
Which team are you on?
Here's to a week filled with support, encouragement, and a community that understands all the layers that come with this journey! 💙
😀
Vinny,
Enjoy your special day with your family!!! :)))
Tim,
Thank you for sharing the "dad joke", lol. You are a great father!!! Enjoy your special day! :))))
Brandon,
You requested pictures. This is a treasured photo of my dad and me. I will always cherish the memories of his warm, fun-loving spirit, his kindness, and the strong values he instilled in me. Although he passed away far too young, the love, laughter, and lessons he gave me have stayed with me throughout my life. He taught me so much about kindness, integrity, and how to treat others. I feel grateful for the memories we shared and for the impact he had on my life. Enjoy this Father's Day to the max! :)))
Happy Father's Day.
Hi everyone! In honor of Father's Day, thought I'd share a Dad joke with you all for a laugh.
Q: Which days are the strongest?
A: Saturday and Sunday. The rest are weekdays! (Get it?! "Weak" Days?! That's funny stuff!)
Happy Father's Day to all of the fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and to everyone serving in a fatherly role!!
Eddie,
Hello! I am not a Saxaphone player but the link below is an article on a saxophonist who learned proper technique of cleaning his saxaphone so he could continue to play: https://www.livescience.com/41057-what-is-saxophone-lung-hypersensitivity-pneumonitis.html
Saxophone lung is a respiratory condition linked to playing wind instruments. It is primarily caused by exposure to mold and allergens that accumulate in the instrument, leading to hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP).
Causes and Symptoms
• Mold Exposure: Mold can grow inside saxophones and other woodwind instruments, especially if they are not cleaned regularly.
• Respiratory Symptoms: Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Prevention
• Regular Cleaning: Musicians should maintain a strict cleaning routine to minimize mold buildup
• Awareness of Symptoms: Early recognition of respiratory issues is crucial for treatment. I hope that this information helps you and you can continue to play the saxophone 🎷.
.
I just read about something called "Saxophone Lung." As a saxophone player for 65 of my 76 years, I'm wondering if this is the cause of my problems. Are there any wind instrument players out there who have given up playing for fear of infection?
Happy Father's Day weekend to all those who celebrate this weekend as a father, grandfather, godfather, and for those who act in a "fatherly role". Many of us have lost our fathers, but we will never forget the values that they instilled in us. We appreciate anyone who acts in a "fatherly role" by lending us a listening ear on challenging days, a ride, or accompanying us to the doctor, reminding us of our resilience, and so much more. Have a great weekend! :))
Are you familiar with the drug Clofazimine? Clofazimine is used for the treatment of some strains of NTM infections. Common side effects include stomach upset in some individuals and gradual skin tanning. The skin discoloration will begin to fade once the medication is discontinued. A baseline EKG and periodic repeat testing should be done while on this medication. Clofazimine is not commercially available in the U.S. for NTM infections. Access is through Novartis‑sponsored expanded access programs or FDA‑authorized SPINDs, with strict eligibility, documentation, and manufacturer cooperation requirements. Your healthcare provider will get this approval process started for patients in need of this drug. Have you taken Clofazimine? If yes, do you want to share anything with the community about this drug?
💙 Happy Father's Day from Bronch and NTM 360social 💙
This weekend, we're celebrating all the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, uncles, mentors, caregivers, and friends who show up with kindness, patience, strength, and support.
Living with bronchiectasis or NTM can bring challenges that others may never see. A helping hand, a listening ear, a ride to an appointment, encouragement on a difficult day, or simply having someone beside you can make all the difference.
Father's Day is about more than a title. It's about the people who guide us, support us, and remind us that we don't have to face life's challenges alone.
Today, we'd love to celebrate those special people in our community.
💙 Who has been a source of strength, encouragement, or support in your life?
Share a memory, a story, or a photo below and help us recognize the people who have made a difference along the way.
Happy Father's Day to all who lead with compassion, understanding, and care.
Below is information on the different types of common rashes:.
- Macular rash
- Flat, discolored spots on the skin.
- Example: rash in measles.
- Papular rash
- Small, raised bumps.
- Example: eczema, some drug reactions.
- Maculopapular rash
- Combination of flat spots and raised bumps.
- Common in viral infections and medication reactions.
- Vesicular rash
- Small fluid-filled blisters.
- Example: Chickenpox, herpes infections.
- Bullous rash
- Large fluid-filled blisters.
- Example: autoimmune blistering diseases.
- Pustular rash
- Pus-filled lesions.
- Example: acne, bacterial skin infections.
- Urticarial rash (hives)
- Raised, itchy welts that come and go.
- Often caused by allergies.
- Petechial rash
- Tiny red or purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin.
- Does not blanch (turn white) when pressed.
- May indicate serious conditions and should be evaluated promptly.
- Purpuric rash
- Larger purple patches due to bleeding under the skin.
- Nodular rash
- Larger, deeper lumps beneath the skin.
Causes of Rashes
- Infections (viral, bacterial, fungal)
- Allergic reactions
- Medications
- Autoimmune diseases
- Heat
Peggy,
Hello! I have not yet heard of an all body rash from Brinsupri. Did your healthcare provider mention that he/ she has seen this type of rash before with Brinsupri? I am interested in finding out more about the type of rash - raised, bubble like, bright red, light red, Itchy? It would be great to share these details with the community in case anyone else develops a similar issue. Thank you!
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 Bronchiectasis and NTM, please consult a physician before making changes to your own Bronchiectasis and NTM management plan.
Community posts are monitored by the 360social Community Manager, as well as staff respiratory therapists, educators, and other medical professionals.