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Happy National Caregivers Day! Today we celebrate individuals who dedicate their time to care for others, both in a personal and professional capacity.

To all the caregivers in our community: thank you for your tireless dedication to improving the lives of others! Your care makes a real and lasting impact.

Katie has a great topic to share about Reflux:

Living with bronchiectasis or NTM often comes with more than just lung symptoms. Reflux is something many people also deal with — even when it’s not obvious.

When stomach acid travels upward into the esophagus or throat, it can lead to heartburn, throat irritation, muscle tightness, and extra mucus. Some people never feel classic heartburn at all — this is often called “silent reflux.” If you notice frequent throat clearing, ongoing mucus, or a sore throat that just won’t quit, reflux could be playing a role.

The good news is that small, everyday habits can make a big difference. Here are a few lung-friendly reflux tips that may help:

Eat smaller meals more often and avoid overeating

Choose non-spicy foods

Chew slowly and thoroughly

Focus on lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish

Choose whole grains and fiber-rich foods to help absorb stomach contents

Enjoy non-citrus fruits

Opt for low-fat soups and dairy

Choose decaffeinated beverages and avoid peppermint or menthol products

Managing reflux isn’t just about comfort — it’s also about protecting your airways and supporting your lungs.

Do you struggle with reflux? What strategies have helped you the most?
Let’s share and support one another 💙

Hello!
Living with bronchiectasis or NTM? You’re not alone if reflux is part of your story,
too. Many people with chronic lung conditions also deal with acid

reflux.
When stomach acid travels upward into the esophagus and throat, it can trigger
heartburn,

throat
irritation, muscle tightness, and extra mucus. Some people don’t even feel classic
heartburn — this is often called “silent reflux.”

If
you notice frequent throat clearing, persistent mucus, or a sore throat that won’t
quit, reflux could be playing a role.

The
good news? Small daily habits can make a big difference. Here are simple, lung-friendly
reflux tips:



Eat
smaller meals more often — avoid overeating

Choose
non-spicy foods

Chew
slowly and thoroughly

Focus
on lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish

Choose
whole grains and fiber-rich foods to help absorb stomach contents

Enjoy
non-citrus fruits

Pick
low-fat soups and dairy options

Choose
decaffeinated beverages, avoid peppermint and menthol products

Managing
reflux isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your airways and supporting
your lungs. Do you struggle with reflux? What strategies have helped you most?

Let’s
share and support each other 💙

Living
with bronchiectasis or NTM? You’re not alone if reflux is part of

your
story, too. Many people with chronic lung conditions also deal with acid
reflux. When stomach

acid
travels upward into the esophagus and throat, it can trigger heartburn,

throat
irritation, muscle tightness, and extra mucus. Some people don’t even

feel
classic heartburn — this is often called “silent reflux.”

If
you notice frequent throat clearing, persistent mucus, or a sore throat that
won’t

quit,
reflux could be playing a role.

The
good news? Small daily habits can make a big difference. Here are simple,

lung-friendly
reflux tips:




Eat smaller
meals more often — avoid overeating



Choose non-spicy
foods



Chew slowly and
thoroughly
Focus on lean
proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish
Choose whole
grains and fiber-rich foods to help absorb stomach contents
Enjoy non-citrus
fruits
Pick low-fat
soups and dairy options
Choose
decaffeinated beverages, avoid peppermint and menthol products




Managing
reflux isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your airways and

supporting
your lungs. Do you struggle with reflux? What strategies have helped you most?
Let’s share and support each other 💙 

How to Fix Outlook Running Slow? – Tips and Tricks

https://helpemailtales.com/knowledgebase/fix-outlook-running-slow

Living with bronchiectasis or NTM? You’re not alone if reflux is part of
your story, too.

Many
people with chronic lung conditions also deal with acid reflux. When stomach
acid travels upward into the esophagus and throat, it can trigger heartburn,
throat irritation, muscle tightness, and extra mucus. Some people don’t even
feel classic heartburn — this is often called “silent reflux.”

If you
notice frequent throat clearing, persistent mucus, or a sore throat that won’t
quit, reflux could be playing a role.

The good
news? Small daily habits can make a big difference. Here are simple,
lung-friendly reflux tips:

• Eat
smaller meals more often — avoid overeating
• Choose non-spicy foods
• Chew slowly and thoroughly
• Focus on lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish
• Choose whole grains and fiber-rich foods to help absorb stomach contents
• Enjoy non-citrus fruits
• Pick low-fat soups and dairy options
• Choose decaffeinated, non-mint teas. Avoid peppermint and menthol (they can
relax the valve that keeps acid down).

Managing
reflux isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your airways and
supporting your lungs.

Do you struggle with reflux? What
strategies have helped you most? Let’s share and support each other 💙 

Living with bronchiectasis or NTM? You’re not alone if reflux is part of
your story, too.

Many
people with chronic lung conditions also deal with acid reflux. When stomach
acid travels upward into the esophagus and throat, it can trigger heartburn,
throat irritation, muscle tightness, and extra mucus. Some people don’t even
feel classic heartburn — this is often called “silent reflux.”

If you
notice frequent throat clearing, persistent mucus, or a sore throat that won’t
quit, reflux could be playing a role.

The good
news? Small daily habits can make a big difference. Here are simple,
lung-friendly reflux tips:

• Eat
smaller meals more often — avoid overeating
• Choose non-spicy foods
• Chew slowly and thoroughly
• Focus on lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish
• Choose whole grains and fiber-rich foods to help absorb stomach contents
• Enjoy non-citrus fruits
• Pick low-fat soups and dairy options
• Choose decaffeinated, non-mint teas. Avoid peppermint and menthol (they can
relax the valve that keeps acid down).

Managing
reflux isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your airways and
supporting your lungs.

Do you struggle with reflux? What
strategies have helped you most? Let’s share and support each other 💙

February is Black History Month- we celebrate great leaders like Mary Eliza Mahoney.  In 1879, Mary became the first Black licensed professional nurse in the United States — at a time when most nursing schools excluded Black students.

Her success challenged racist barriers in professional education and helped legitimize Black nurses in a segregated healthcare system.

She also co-founded the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses — advocating for equity in nursing education and practice.

Access to nursing didn’t expand naturally. It expanded because leaders like Mahoney refused exclusion.

Hello group. Duly diagnosed after 6 month difficult differential decision making. I qualify for both these diagnoses. I am now in a three month period until my next CT scan and physician appointment. Learning about how little Medicine has to offer as far as patient support and prediction of disease progression. It would seem current education that it's up to me to maintain airway clearance at home with six month CT scans to see if I have Cherry Tree or hand and glove scans. Does that sound like anyone else's idea of future life? Some literature seems to say that I have excellent chance of living another five years, i'm currently 78 year old white male, with hx in 2016 of MRSA pneumonia.  (plan to phone patient ambassador line in future)

Newly diagnosed with Bronchiectasis or NTM? You’re not alone. 💙

A new diagnosis can bring a lot of emotions and questions, and it’s okay to take things one step at a time. Bronch & NTM 360social has dedicated spaces created especially for people who are just beginning this journey.

Within the community, you’ll find sections and discussions focused on:

Understanding your diagnosis – clear, patient-friendly information

Living your best with Bronchiectasis and NTM – everyday tips for routines, airway clearance, pacing, and self-care

Shared experiences – learning from others who truly understand

Encouragement and connection – support when you need it most

In addition to community support, we offer one-on-one help through our Bronchiectasis & NTM 360 Patient Ambassadors. Our Patient Ambassadors are real patients who understand what you’re going through and are available to listen, share resources, and help you find your footing. You can call toll-free (833) 411-5864, or you can email contactus@bronchandntm.org.

Whether you’re here to read quietly, ask your first question, or connect directly with someone who’s been in your shoes, you’re welcome here. Move at your own pace -- there’s no right or wrong way to begin.

✨ We’re really glad you found us, and we’re here to walk alongside you as you learn how to live your best with Bronchiectasis and NTM.

Here is a section that may be a good place to start:
https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/Newly-Diagnosed

The University of Texas has a survey open
through this Sunday asking patients to help shed light on the factors
in a person's life that may impact their susceptibility to NTM lung
disease. Though it is a lengthy survey, the knowledge you share as a
patient can help shape research in the future. Please take some time
in the next few days to answer this survey. Click on this
link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NTMsurvey

Jennifer
Honda and her team at the University of Texas have a survey open
through this Sunday asking patients to help shed light on the factors
in a person's life that may impact their susceptibility to NTM lung
disease. Though it is a lengthy survey, the knowledge you share as a
patient can help shape research in the future. Please take some time
in the next few days to answer this survey. Click on this
link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NTMsurvey

Hello! Inflammatory markers
were discussed at our last BNTM Coffee Break. Below is a review of the two most
commonly used inflammation markers: the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
(ESR) test, which measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the
bottom of a test tube over a specified period. This rate increases with
inflammation. ESR values typically range from 0-22 mm/hr for men and 0-29 mm/hr
for women. Elevated ESR levels can indicate inflammation due to infections,
autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammatory diseases.

CRP (C-reactive protein) is a
blood test that measures the level of C-reactive protein, which the liver
produces in response to inflammation. Normal CRP levels are generally less than
10 mg/L. High CRP levels indicate inflammation and can be associated with
infections, chronic inflammatory diseases, and other health conditions.
Elevated CRP levels require further diagnostic testing to determine the root
cause. It is a good practice to keep a paper copy of your labs or to view them on your patient portal to see trends over time. Please let us know if you
have any questions.

Hello! Inflammatory markers
were discussed at our last BNTM Coffee Break. Below is a review of the two most
commonly used inflammation markers: the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
(ESR) test, which measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the
bottom of a test tube over a specified period. This rate increases with
inflammation. ESR values typically range from 0-22 mm/hr for men and 0-29 mm/hr
for women. Elevated ESR levels can indicate inflammation due to infections,
autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammatory diseases.



CRP (C-reactive protein) is a
blood test that measures the level of C-reactive protein, which the liver
produces in response to inflammation. Normal CRP levels are generally less than
10 mg/L. High CRP levels indicate inflammation and can be associated with
infections, chronic inflammatory diseases, and other health conditions.
Elevated CRP levels require further diagnostic testing to determine the root
cause. It is a good practice to keep a paper copy of your labs or on your
patient portal to see the trends over time. Please let us know if you
have any questions.

Hello! Inflammatory markers were
discussed at our last BNTM Coffee Break. Below is a review of the two most

commonly used inflammation
markers: the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate

(ESR) test, which measures
the rate at which red blood cells settle at the

bottom of a test tube over a
specified period. This rate increases with

inflammation. ESR values
typically range from 0-22 mm/hr for men and 0-29 mm/hr

for women. Elevated ESR
levels can indicate inflammation due to infections,

autoimmune diseases, and
chronic inflammatory diseases.



CRP (C-reactive protein) is a
blood test that measures the level of C-reactive protein, which the liver

produces in response to
inflammation. Normal CRP levels are generally less than

10 mg/L. High CRP levels
indicate inflammation and can be associated with

infections, chronic
inflammatory diseases, and other health conditions.

Elevated CRP levels require
further diagnostic testing to determine the root

cause. It is a good practice
to keep a paper copy of your labs or on your

patient portal to see the
trends over time. Please let us know if you

have any questions.

Hello! Inflammatory markers
were discussed at our last BNTM Coffee Break. Below is a review of the two most
commonly used inflammation markers: the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
(ESR) test, which measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the
bottom of a test tube over a specified period. This rate increases with
inflammation. ESR values typically range from 0-22 mm/hr for men and 0-29 mm/hr
for women. Elevated ESR levels can indicate inflammation due to infections,
autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammatory diseases.



CRP (C-reactive protein) is a
blood test that measures the level of C-reactive protein, which the liver
produces in response to inflammation. Normal CRP levels are generally less than
10 mg/L. High CRP levels indicate inflammation and can be associated with
infections, chronic inflammatory diseases, and other health conditions.
Elevated CRP levels require further diagnostic testing to determine the root
cause. It is a good practice to keep a paper copy of your labs or on your
patient portal to see the trends over time. Please let us know if you
have any questions.

Happy Chinese New Year to those who celebrate 🎉 this holiday. 2026 will be the Year of the Horse, specifically the Fire Horse, symbolizing "energy, freedom, and forward momentum”. The horse is also synonymous with strength, grace and determination, and this zodiac sign serves as a powerful symbol of perseverance, freedom and momentum for the upcoming lunar cycle.The horse is traditionally regarded as an emblem of confidence and forward motion, suggesting a period defined by significant opportunity and success. I love the idea of “ forward motion “ for all of our members. Today is a new day to march forward for all BNTM members , using preventative measures and self care to work towards the best quality of life for each member.

Presidents Day, officially Washington s Birthday, is a holiday in the United States celebrated on the third Monday of February to honor all persons who served in the office of president of the United States. The federal holiday specifically honors George Washington, who led the Continental Army to victory in the American Revolutionary War.

Hello! Are you able to get some exercise in throughout the winter months? Exercise is good for our hearts, 💕, lungs and our emotional wellbeing. Five to ten minutes a day, is far better than no exercise. It is recommended to start out slowly and to gradually increase your exercise plans over time. The link below reviews the benefits of exercise. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/Exercise
Please share your exercise routine with other BTM members. We are here to encourage one another to improve the quality of our lives.😍😍😍

🙀 Helen just joined up here and I am very excited. I am her caregiver. She is working on learning the harmonica. It’s hard for her, but it’s great that she’s doing it.

😐 Beginning to learn the harmonica in between coughing

Hello! Good nutrition is a part of self care. Taking time to prepare nutritious meals is a gift 🎁 to yourself that will pay off in the long run. Below is a link that reviews the basics of nutrition: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/Nutrition

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Hello! Happy Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day or whatever you call this day of celebrating our hearts 💕♥. I hope that you enjoy this day whether you are married, single, divorced, widowed, in limbo. Feeling supported is associated with shifts in immune regulation, including inflammatory pathways linked to long-term chronic disease risk.

Connection is a basic human need and an important nutrient similar to meds and food. . We are here to support you here on line , via the phone 833-411-5864, or via email at contactus@bronchandntm.org. I hope that you have a good day getting pampered by someone or pampering yourself- you have been dealing with health challenges and you deserve it. 
💕♥❤💐🎊🎁🤗

Hello! Albumin and Prealbumin were discussed during our
recent BNTM Coffee Break.

Total protein has two main components—albumin and globulin.
The body’s protein is derived from ingested food and is influenced by the
quality of diet, as well as by liver and kidney function.

Below is a basic review of Albumin vs. Prealbumin. Think of
them as nutrition markers with different time speeds.🥣
Albumin =“Long-term fuel tank”. Albumin reflects overall nutrition over
weeks to months. Low albumin can mean: poor nutrition over time, chronic illness/inflammation.
Low albumin is linked with weaker breathing muscles and slower recovery. Prealbumin
= “Weekly check-in”. Prealbumin reflects recent protein intake -the last few
days to a week.

This marker is helpful to see if nutrition support is
working, if protein intake is improving, and if recovery is moving in the right
direction. It also drops with infection, inflammation, stress, and steroid use.
This matters for BNTM patients since breathing takes muscle strength.
Malnutrition can lead to a weaker diaphragm, greater fatigue, slower healing, and a higher risk of infection. This is an important lab to check before a patient has
surgery.

This explains why good nutrition is so important for us. We
may be tired on some days of preparing meals, but having quick, easy meals available is essential to a better quality of life.

Albumin and Prealbumin were
discussed during our recent BNTM Coffee Break.


Total protein has two main
components—albumin and globulin. The body’s protein is derived from ingested
food and is influenced by the quality of diet, as well as by liver and kidney
function.

Below is a basic review of
Albumin vs. Prealbumin
-Think of them as nutrition markers with different time speeds.🥣 Albumin =
“Long-term fuel tank”. Albumin reflects overall nutrition over weeks to months. Low albumin can
mean: poor nutrition over time, chronic illness/inflammation. Low
albumin is linked with weaker
breathing muscles and slower recovery.

Prealbumin = “Weekly
check-in”. Prealbumin reflects recent protein intake (last few days to a
week).

This marker is helpful
to see if nutrition support is working, if protein intake is improving, and if recovery is moving in the right direction.
It also drops with infection, inflammation,
stress

and steroid use.
This is an important lab to check before a patient has surgery.

This
matters for BNTM patients since breathing takes muscle strength. Malnutrition
can lead to a weaker diaphragm,
more fatigue, slower healing, and a higher infection risk.

This
explains why good nutrition is so important for us. We may be tired on some days to prepare meals, but finding a way to have quick and easy meals available is essential to a
better quality of life.

Hello! Were you able to attend the BNTM coffee break yesterday with Michelle MacDonald, MS, RDN?  Do you have any follow-up questions?

A review of Albumin vs.
Prealbumin -Think of them as nutrition markers with different
time speeds.

🥣 Albumin = “Long-term fuel
tank”


A protein made by the liver.  Reflects overall
nutrition over weeks to months.  Changes slowly.   Low albumin can mean: poor nutrition over time,
chronic illness/inflammation, fluid shifts (common in lung & heart disease).    Low albumin is linked
with:

Weaker breathing muscles
Slower recovery
More hospital complications. It can also be low from inflammation, not just
malnutrition.



⚡ Prealbumin = “Weekly
check-in”


Also made by the liver
Reflects recent protein intake (last few days to a week)
Changes quickly


Helpful to see if: Nutrition support is working



Protein intake is
improving
Recovery is moving in the right direction



But it also drops with:


Infection
Inflammation
Stress
Steroid use


Why this matters with BNTM patients- breathing takes muscle strength. Malnutrition
can lead to:


Weaker diaphragm
More fatigue
Poor cough strength
Slower healing
Higher infection risk.   So providers sometimes use:


Albumin →
big picture nutrition
Prealbumin →
short-term progress marker


Neither test alone proves malnutrition — they
must be interpreted alongside:


Weight trends
Muscle loss
Appetite
CRP/inflammation markers.

Any Seattle peeps here?

hi group, new today. How to start? Can I access others comments? Do I self introduce? Double Dx one mo ago. Now need to construct a PIP (pulmonary improvement plan). Learn about milestones, outcome measures. Maybe local counselor and trainer.

Hello! 😊
Are you ready for a gentle review of routine lab numbers?

The previous post reviewed the purpose of each of the 20 lab markers or measurements in an SMA-20 panel (Sequential Multiple Analyzer panel), also known as a CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel). The SMA-20 or CMP measures key electrolytes, kidney and liver function markers, glucose, and proteins.

Too often, healthcare providers list these tests and numbers quickly, expecting patients to fully understand what they mean. The goal of sharing this information is to help you better understand these markers and the significance of any abnormal values. It’s hard to make informed changes—or ask meaningful questions—if we don’t fully understand what the targets are.

Below are normal adult reference ranges, provided for general educational purposes. Please note that ranges may vary slightly between laboratories and publications:

Glucose (fasting): 70–100 mg/dL
Sodium (Na+): 136–145 mEq/L
Potassium (K+): 3.5–5.0 mEq/L
Chloride (Cl–): 95–105 mEq/L
CO₂ (Bicarbonate): 22–28 mEq/L
BUN: 7–20 mg/dL
Creatinine: 0.6–1.2 mg/dL
Calcium (total): 8.4–10.2 mg/dL
Phosphorus: 3.0–4.5 mg/dL
Magnesium: 1.5–2.0 mg/dL
Total Protein: 6.0–7.8 g/dL
Albumin: 3.5–5.5 g/dL
Globulin: 2.3–3.5 g/dL
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase): 10–40 U/L
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): 12–38 U/L

I hope this helps you feel better equipped to ask your healthcare provider questions about your SMA-20 lab results and to better understand what your numbers may be telling you.

Hello! Are you ready for a
quiz on routine lab numbers? Lol😊 The previous post reviewed the purpose of each
of the 20 lab markers/ measurements in an SMA 20 Panel (Sequential Multiple
Analyzer panel). This is also known as CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel). The
SMA 20 or CMP panel measures key electrolytes, kidney and liver function
markers, glucose, and proteins. Too often, I hear health care providers just
ramble the names of these tests with numbers, expecting the patient to
understand exactly

what they are talking about.
My goal is for you to understand the meaning of these markers and the
significance of any abnormal numbers. We cannot make a

change if we do not fully
understand what our targets are.

Normal adult reference ranges
are provided below for general educational purposes. Ranges may vary slightly
in different labs and publications.



Glucose (Fasting)70–100mg/dL
, Sodium (Na+) 136–145mEq/L, Potassium (K+) 3.5–5.0 mEq/L, Chloride

(Cl–) 95–105 mEq/L,CO2
(Bicarbonate)22–28mEq/L. BUN 7–20 mg/dL, Creatinine 0.6–1.2 mg/dL. Calcium
(Total) 8.4–10.2mg/dL, Phosphorus 3.0–4.5 mg/dL. Magnesium

1.5–2.0 mg/dL, Total Protein
6.0–7.8 g/dL, Albumin 3.5–5.5 g/dL, Globulin 2.3–3.5 g/dL, ALT(Alanine
Aminotransferase) 10–40 U/L , AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)12–38

I hope that you feel better equipped
to ask your healthcare providers any questions that you may have

about your SMA 20 lab
results.

Hello!
Are you ready for a quiz on routine lab numbers? Lol😊 The previous post reviewed the purpose of each of the 20
lab markers/ measurements in an SMA 20 Panel (Sequential Multiple Analyzer
panel). This is also known as CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel). The SMA 20
or CMP panel measures key electrolytes, kidney and liver function markers,
glucose, and proteins. Too often, I hear health care providers just ramble the
names of these tests with numbers, expecting the patient to understand exactly
what they are talking about. My goal is for you to understand the meaning of
these markers and the significance of any abnormal numbers. We cannot make a
change if we do not fully understand what our targets are. 


Normal
adult reference ranges are provided below for general educational purposes.
Ranges may vary slightly in different labs and publications.

Glucose
(Fasting)70–100mg/dL , Sodium (Na+) 136–145mEq/L, Potassium (K+) 3.5–5.0 mEq/L, Chloride
(Cl–) 95–105 mEq/L,CO2 (Bicarbonate)22–28mEq/L. BUN 7–20 mg/dL, Creatinine
0.6–1.2 mg/dL. Calcium (Total) 8.4–10.2mg/dL, Phosphorus 3.0–4.5 mg/dL. Magnesium
1.5–2.0 mg/dL, Total Protein 6.0–7.8 g/dL, Albumin 3.5–5.5 g/dL, Globulin
2.3–3.5 g/dL, ALT(Alanine Aminotransferase) 10–40 U/L , AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)12–38 
 I hope that you feel better
equipped to ask your healthcare providers any questions that you may have
about your SMA 20 lab results.

Hello! Are you ready for a<br>quiz on routine lab numbers? Lol😊 The previous post reviewed the purpose of each of the<br>20 lab measurements in an SMA 20 Panel (Sequential Multiple Analyzer panel).<br>This is also known as CMP, (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel). The SMA 20 or CMP<br>panel measures key electrolytes, kidney and liver function markers, glucose,<br>and proteins. <br><br>My goal is for you to understand the meaning of<br>these markers and the significance of any abnormal numbers. Too often, I hear health care providers just<br>ramble the names of these tests with numbers, expecting the patient to understand<br>exactly what they are talking about. We<br>cannot make a change if we do not fully understand how to interpret the results.<br><br>Normal adult reference ranges<br>are provided below for general educational purposes. Ranges may vary slightly<br>in different labs and publications.<br><br>Electrolytes are<br>important for cellular function. <br>Marker Normal<br>Range Unit <br><br>Glucose (Fasting)70–100mg/dL <br><br>Sodium (Na+) 136–145mEq/L <br><br>Potassium (K+) 3.5–5.0 mEq/L <br><br>Chloride (Cl–) 95–105 mEq/L <br><br>CO2 (Bicarbonate)22–28mEq/L <br><br>BUN 7–20<br>mg/dL <br><br>Creatinine 0.6–1.2 mg/dL <br><br>Calcium (Total) 8.4–10.2mg/dL <br><br>Phosphorus 3.0–4.5 mg/dL <br><br>Magnesium 1.5–2.0 mg/dL <br><br>Total Protein 6.0–7.8 g/dL <br><br>Albumin 3.5–5.5 g/dL <br><br>Globulin 2.3–3.5 g/dL <br><br>ALT (Alanine<br>Aminotransferase) 10–40 U/L <br><br>AST (Aspartate<br>Aminotransferase)12–38 U/L<br><br>Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)25–100 U/L <br><br>Bilirubin (Total) 0.1–1.0 mg/dL <br><br> <br>Total Cholesterol<200<br><br> <br> Triglycerides<150<br><br>Iron (Serum)65–175 (M) / 50–170 (F)<br><br> <br><br> <br><br> <br><br> <br><br>

A SMA20 blood test is frequently ordered by your primary care provider and or your pulmonologist while under their care. Medications are filtered through the liver and kidneys.
Medications, illnesses, and changes in nutritional intake can affect these numbers. The article below explains the meaning of each of the 20 tests. Hopefully, you will have a better understanding of what is going on when your healthcare provider reviews your results.

https://healthresearchfunding.org/smac-20-blood-test-results-explained/



SMAC 20 Blood Test Results Explained - HRFThe SMAC 20 blood test is a regularly ordered group of tests that helps to determine what the overall status of health of a patient happens to be. Most patients will be required to fast for a minimum of 12 hours before having the blood draw for this test. Results are typically available in 24-48 …

A SMA20 blood test is
frequently ordered by your primary care provider and or your pulmonologist
while under their care. Medications are filtered through the liver and kidneys.
Medications, illnesses, and changes in nutritional intake can affect these
numbers. The article below explains the meaning of each of the 20 tests.
Hopefully, you will have a better understanding of what is going on when your
healthcare provider reviews your results.

https://healthresearchfunding.org/smac-20-blood-test-results-explained/

A SMA20 blood test is frequently ordered by your primary care provider and or your pulmonologist while under their care. Medications are filtered through the liver and kidneys. Medications, illnesses, and nutritional intake changes can affect these numbers. The article below explains the meaning of each of the 20 tests, which will give you a better understanding if these labs are low or elevated. SMAC 20 Blood Test Results Explained - HRF

Hello! February is healthy heart month❤❤❤. Are you keeping good tabs on your cholesterol levels? The terms LDL, HDL and more  can be confusing The article below from the Cleveland Clinic reviews the different types of cholesterol and treatment options. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11920-cholesterol-numbers-what-do-they-mean

Hello! How are you doing today? Are there high winds in your area? High wind conditions can significantly impact respiratory patients. Cold Air: High winds can bring cold, dry air, which can irritate the airways and lead to bronchospasm/ bronchoconstriction, making it harder to breathe.  Symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing may occur in some individuals. Be prepared with a mask/ a good scarf if you must go outside your home on high wind days. Have your inhaler available if one has been prescribed by your health care provider. 

Hello everyone! 

Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break is Wednesday, February 11, 2026 @ 2:30pm EST.

Michelle MacDonald, MS, RDN, CDCES will join us again to address "How your Lab Results and Nutritional Needs are Interrelated.” Time allowing, she will also address additional questions about nutrition for Bronchiectasis and NTM Patients from our November 2025 Coffee Break. Michelle is a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes care and education specialist who has 15 years of clinical experience as the dedicated dietitian to the infectious disease clinic at National Jewish Health. Currently, she works full-time in private practice, offering both virtual and in-person consultations. 

Resources:

Here is a link to a video of Michelle MacDonald on Nutrition. Sponsored by NTMir.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30L2Ha4W_Nk

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!

Heart Health Matters 💙 When you live with Bronchiectasis
or NTM, your lungs work harder every day. What many people don’t realize is
that your heart is working harder, too. Your Heart Is Part of Your Healing 💙
A strong, supported heart helps move oxygen, fight fatigue, and give you the
energy to keep going. When you care for your heart, you’re not just protecting
an organ — you’re supporting your entire healing system.

Simple heart-healthy small steps can make a real difference:

Choose foods that nourish, heart-healthy foods, such as a
balanced, anti-inflammatory meal

🚶 Gentle movement, like a
gentle walk or stretching, when able to do so

😴 Prioritizing rest and sleep-
rest without guilt

💧 Staying hydrated

🧘 Stress reduction, breathe
deeply, and calm your nervous system

Taking care of your heart is another way of taking care of your
lungs. You are more than your diagnosis. You are strong, resilient, and worth
the care. 💙 Do you have any heart-healthy practices that
you would like to share with the community?

Heart Health Matters 💙 When you live with
Bronchiectasis or NTM, your lungs work harder every day. What many people don’t
realize is that your heart is working harder, too. Your Heart Is Part of Your
Healing 💙 A strong, supported heart helps move oxygen,
fight fatigue, and give you the energy to keep going. When you care for your
heart, you’re not just protecting an organ — you’re supporting your entire
healing system.

Simple heart-healthy small steps can make a real difference:

·
Choose foods that nourish, heart-healthy foods
such as a balanced, anti-inflammatory meal

·
🚶 Gentle movement, like a
gentle walk or stretching, when able to do so

·
😴 Prioritizing rest and
sleep- rest without guilt

·
💧 Staying hydrated

·
🧘 Stress reduction,
breathe deeply, and calm your nervous system

Taking care of your heart is another way of taking care of
your lungs. You are more than your diagnosis. You are strong, resilient, and
worth the care. 💙 Do you have any heart-healthy
practices that you would like to share with the community?

Hello! A basic review of the heart and lung connection: The
heart and lungs are confined within the chest cavity and share different
functions. When lung diseases reduce oxygen delivery, it can place stress on
the right heart. The heart pumps oxygen-poor blood from the right side into the
lungs via the pulmonary artery, where gas exchange occurs in tiny air sacs
called alveoli. I am not writing this to alarm you but to remind you that it is
important to keep an eye on your vital signs- your blood pressure, your heart
rate, swelling of feet and lower legs, and your cholesterol levels. Report any notable changes to your primary care provider; do not wait until an upcoming visit in three to six months. Your primary care provider may recommend an appointment with a cardiologist to do
further diagnostic testing. Cardiac diagnostic testing may include an echo, a stress test, or other tests. Let us know if you have any specific questions. Below is a video on how to take your own vital signs:
https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=vital+signs+you+tube+video&&mid=062CDD0C089341CCC7A3062CDD0C089341CCC7A3&FORM=VAMGZCvital signs you tube video - Search VideosWatch videos instantly on Bing—enjoy direct playback, discover related clips, and dive into trending content all in one place.

Hello! A basic review of the heart and lung connection: The
heart and lungs are confined within the chest cavity and share different
functions. When lung diseases reduce oxygen delivery, it can place stress on
the right heart. The heart pumps oxygen-poor blood from the right side into the
lungs via the pulmonary artery, where gas exchange occurs in tiny air sacs
called alveoli. I am not writing this to alarm you but to remind you that it is
important to keep an eye on your vital signs- your blood pressure, your heart
rate, swelling of feet and lower legs, and your cholesterol levels. Report any notable changes to your primary
care provider; do not wait until an upcoming visit in three to six months. Your
primary care provider may recommend an appointment with a cardiologist to do
further diagnostic testing. Cardiac diagnostic
testing may include an echo, a stress test, or other tests. Let us know if you
have any specific questions. Below is a video on how to take your own vital signs: 
https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=vital+signs+you+tube+video&&mid=062CDD0C089341CCC7A3062CDD0C089341CCC7A3&FORM=VAMGZC

Hello! A basic review of the heart and lung connection: The heart and lungs are confined within the chest cavity and share
different functions. When lung diseases reduce oxygen delivery, it can place stress on the
right heart. The heart
pumps oxygen-poor blood
from the right side into the lungs via the pulmonary
artery, where gas
exchange occurs in tiny air sacs called alveoli. I am not writing this to alarm you but to inform you that it is
important to keep an eye on your vital signs- your blood pressure, your heart rate,
swelling of feet and lower legs, and your cholesterol levels. Your primary care provider may recommend an
appointment with a cardiologist to do further
diagnostic testing, such as an echo, a stress test, or other tests. Let us know if
you have any specific questions. Below is a video on how to take your own vital
signs:

https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=vital+signs+you+tube+video&&mid=062CDD0C089341CCC7A3062CDD0C089341CCC7A3&FORM=VAMGZC



vital signs you tube video - Search Videos

Hello! A basic review of the heart and lung connection: The heart
and lungs are within the chest cavity and share different 
functions. When lung diseases reduce oxygen delivery, it can place stress on the
right heart. The heart pumps oxygen-poor blood from the right side into the lungs via the pulmonary artery, where gas exchange occurs in tiny air sacs called alveoli.  I am not writing
this to alarm you but to inform you that it is important to keep an eye on your
vital signs- your blood pressure, your heart rate, swelling of feet and lower
legs, and your cholesterol levels. Appointments with a cardiologist may be needed if your
primary care provider recommends. Further diagnostic testing may include an echo, a stress test, or other tests. Let us know if you have any specific questions. Below is a video on how to take your own vital signs:
https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=vital+signs+you+tube+video&&mid=062CDD0C089341CCC7A3062CDD0C089341CCC7A3&FORM=VAMGZCvital signs you tube video - Search VideosWatch videos instantly on Bing—enjoy direct playback, discover related clips, and dive into trending content all in one place.3 hours ago