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🎉 We’re on the road to 5,000! 🎉

Our Bronchiectasis & NTM 360social community is growing, and we’re getting closer to an exciting milestone — 5,000 members strong! Each new member brings shared experiences, encouragement, questions, wisdom, and support that make this space what it is.

This countdown isn’t just about a number. It’s about people showing up for one another, learning together, and reminding each other that no one has to navigate Bronchiectasis or NTM alone.

If you’ve been here since the early days or just joined recently — thank you for being part of this community. Let’s keep the conversations going, keep supporting one another, and count down together as we head toward 5,000 💙

Stay tuned… we’re getting close!

Hello! Each season comes along with special treats and some challenges for respiratory patients.
Dry air within our homes can affect our health. Dry heat can cause: Dry, scratchy throat and eyes, nose bleeds, dry, itchy skin, asthma flares, respiratory problems, sinus & allergy issues, bronchitis, and dehydration. Humidifiers are not recommended for BNTM patients.  A few alternative tips:  Place water containers/bowls near your heating vents or radiators for a quick fix. When the heat warms the air, it also evaporates water into the air, adding moisture. Apply lotion to lock moisture into your skin. Do you have any suggestions on how you deal with dry heat throughout the winter months?

Happy Hanukkah 🕎 to all who celebrate! I hope that you truly enjoy your holiday season. 

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As we move into the holiday week, our hearts are holding many things at once. We’re sending warm wishes to our Jewish friends in the Bronch and NTM 360social community on the first night of Hanukkah, with hopes that the light brings comfort, peace, and renewed strength. We’re also deeply saddened by the violence in Australia and are keeping everyone affected, their loved ones, and the surrounding community in our thoughts. May this season remind us of compassion, connection, and hope for gentler days ahead. 💙

I am extremely fatigued a week in on IV antibiotics. I feel much better in terms of my infection but I can’t believe how tired I am.  Have others had this experience? I feel like I could sleep all day and all night! My assumption is it is related to my body fighting the infection and not the medication itself.

Hello! Snow ❄ is hitting many parts of the northeast. The snow can be beautiful to look at, but the extreme cold air can make things challenging for those with chronic lung conditions. The cold air can cause bronchospasms and make breathing more difficult for some people. The wisest thing you can do to protect yourself in cold weather is to be prepared, whether that's having an inhaler regimen for a few days in case of an emergency or having a portable, charged-up, or battery-operated nebulizer as needed. If you have to go outside, breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Your nose does a better job of warming the air than your mouth. Wear a scarf to wrap around your nose and mouth. Avoid exercising outdoors. Get someone to assist you with snow removal if possible. Breathing heavier during any type of exercise in cold weather can increase symptoms of asthma or chronic lung conditions. Let us know if you have any questions.

Hello! Snow ❄ is hitting many parts of the northeast. The snow can be beautiful to look at but the extreme cold air can but the cold can make things challenging for those with chronic lung conditions . The cold air can cause bronchospasms making breathing more difficult for some people. The wisest thing that you can do to protect yourself in the cold weather is to be prepared, whether that's having an inhaler regiment for a few days in case of an emergency or having a portable charged up or battery operated nebulizer if needed. If  you have to outside, breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth.Your nose does a better job at warming the air than your mouth.Wear a scarf to wrap around your nose and  mouth. Avoid exercising outdoors. Get someone to assist you with snow removal if possible. Breathing heavier during exercise in cold weather can increase symptoms of asthma, or chronic lung conditions. 

Hello! The holidays are around the corner. Many of us tend to overeat throughout the holiday season. It is important to be mindful of your eating habits if you have acid reflux. Below is a you tube video, featuring Dr. Gwen Huitt , reviewing the basics of acid reflux . Let us know if you have any questions. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=lf_hSgJ21BY

Hello! Preventative measures are far easier to deal with than curative measures.  Airway clearance is most important at this time of the year than other seasons. Below is an infographic on avoiding pneumonia: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/DownloadsLibrary/Files/StayingHealthyPneumonia.pdf

I want to take a moment to recognize Katie and the incredible support she brings as an Ambassador for our Bronchiectasis and NTM 360social community. She’s such a valuable resource, and we’re fortunate to have her right here on the site when questions come up or when someone needs a little extra insight or reassurance.

If there’s something you’d prefer to ask more privately, Katie is always open to connecting one-on-one. You can reach out through private message here on the platform, or email her directly if that feels easier.

We’re so grateful for everything she does to help our community feel informed, supported, and never alone. Thank you, Katie, for all the heart you bring to this space. 💛

The snow is finally melting in Richmond, VA! What does it look like out your window? Anyone want to escape to the tropics? 🏝️😎🌞

Happy December, Bronchiectasis & NTM 360social!

We’ve made it to the season of sparkly lights, warm drinks, and trying to remember where we put the good blanket. Even with winter settling in, this is a great time to celebrate everything we can do -- at our pace, in our way, and with plenty of support along the journey.

Living with bronchiectasis or NTM means we’re often pros at planning ahead and juggling routines, but look at the wins we keep stacking up:
🎄 Still navigating the colder air like seasoned winter strategists
🎁 Still showing up for each other with kindness, humor, and “you’ve-got-this” energy
⛄ Still finding ways to make December feel bright -- airways, clearance, and all

And let’s admit it: this community has mastered the art of celebrating the small victories:
✨ Got through airway clearance today? That absolutely counts as holiday magic
✨ Wrapped a gift without losing the scissors? Champion behavior
✨ Chose rest before stress? You’re basically running a masterclass
✨ Found a moment to breathe a bit easier? That’s the best gift of the season

December isn’t about what we can’t do -- it’s about honoring what we manage every day and finding joy in the little things we can do, even on tougher days.

Here’s to a month filled with gentle laughs, warm connections, brighter-breathing days, and minimal run-ins with rogue tinsel! 💙🎄😄

😁

Good afternoon every one. The 3×s a wk is still better than before however still antibiotic overload on some days. But im not a very big person so i guess is it what it is. The Dr added 2 more monrhs of antibiotics due to the lack of progress when i was vomiting. It's effecting my vision on some days. And he also brought up surgery if I  keep collecting the adverse reactions.  2 more months sounds better.  I'm mentally & physically exhuasted , constant struggle to get through the day . But I'm doing it. Hope the holidays are good to everyone.  And remember...Chin Up !

How are you feeling with the colder weather? Some of us with the additional diagnosis of Asthma may need to use our inhalers more frequently. Cold air , winds can cause bronchospasms in some individuals. It is best to wear a scarf 🧣 and to carry your inhaler with you when you are out and about. 

Are you looking for something interesting to watch? The Lung Health Collaborative Virtual Assembly was recently held. Below are some great you tube presentations of great speakers and relevant content: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY1u8Ny9CYw1jJwLExOU1GqH-hjdipLHM

Hello! Below is a part of the recent presentation done by Dr. Doreen Adrizzio , from the recent North American BNTM conference. This summary of the conference highlights was sponsored by Running on Air and NTM Information and Research.


DPP-1 Inhibitors
There is a lot of interest in the new drugs that are targeting inflammation in Bronchiectasis, from the first FDA approved treatment to on going drug studies. Below are some links and information:
Phase 3 Trial of the DPP-1 Inhibitor Brensocatib in Bronchiectasis


Webinar - Dipeptidyl Peptidase 1 (DPP-1) Inhibitors for Bronchiectasis - Overview and Q &A


Starting  to Recruit: The AIRTIVITY™ Study: A Study to Find Out Whether BI 1291583 Helps People With Bronchiectasis

Is anyone taking brinsupri i am afraid to take it because i take a lot of pill form herbs abd vitimins anyone else help kk

This week is National Influenza Vaccination Week. The link below will review the history of this week and the importance of the influenza vaccination: https://nationaltoday.com/national-influenza-vaccination-week/

Hello! Are you up to listening to a podcast?  The podcast below, entitled Research Under Attack- Protecting NIH Funding, podcast # 19 will give you an update on research in lung disease: https://copdfoundation.podbean.com/

Hello everyone! 

Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break is Wednesday, December 10, 2025 @ 2:30pm EST.

We will end the year with an open Questions and Answer session. Please plan to ask your questions during our discussion or email them to us in advance at contactus@bronchandntm.org. Alyssa Dittner BSRT, PDE, NTTS, our Assistant Director of Education and Community will share travel tips.

In celebration of the holiday season, please wear your ugly holiday sweater, fun holiday outfit, or your favorite holiday colors to add some spirit to the meeting! 

Below are some helpful resources related to our discussion: 

https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/177/Tips-for-the-Holidays-for-individuals-with-bronchiectasis-and-NTM 

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!

Were you able to listen into the summary of the North American BNTM Conference, presented by Dr. Doreen Adrizzio? One of her key points was about getting pneumococcal antibody levels labs done. If the antibody levels are low, our healthcare providers may recommend a booster. A repeat lab test should be done after the booster to make sure that you have adequate protection. This is so important as we prepare for the upcoming winter months. 

Question for our meeting:  Does everyone with bronchiectasis in the USA get put on a Bronchiectasis Register?  Or are some health services unaware there is such a thing?

Hi all! Happy December! I hope everyone is staying warm if you are like me and already buried in snow.⛄ Remember to take time for yourself during the holiday season. It's very easy to become overwhelmed, discouraged, and burnt out while juggling family, travel, shopping and dealing with the overall hustle and bustle all around. The holidays are full of the best times but also some of the hardest. Take that extra 5 minutes for yourself, smile at babies, brake for squirrels, and when feeling isolated remember you always have support here!


"Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see" -Mark Twain💌

Handwashing is one of the top measures to lessen the spread of infection, especially in a healthcare facility. A nosocomial infection is a term used when a patient gets an infection while in a healthcare setting. The link and infographic below reviews the basics of handwashing. It is important that you advocate for yourself and speak up if you notice that a healthcare professional is not washing their hands before examining you. Please let me know if you have any questions. https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/hand-hygiene-for-healthcare.html

Respiratory Drug Update: A new generic drug has been approved by the FDA, for the brand name of ProAir HRA 
https://respiratory-therapy.com/products-treatment/pharmaceuticals/us-pharmaceuticals/fda-approves-albuterol-sulfate-inhalation-aerosol-amneal/?utm_term=RT%20Five%20Dec%202025&utm_campaign_type=newsletter&utm_hsid=346581813&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_f3hRmzTNxHT79mr3nM5XIo8qBPcln2Ev-e9-5pMDWqxteKaXNuM7dHeG4a6eWG3XtWkz-0vZx22r3wSKElXtb-koCMg&_hsmi=392856152&utm_source=newsletter

Hello December, BronchandNTM360social! ❄

I hope everyone is settling in as we head deeper into the cold months. This is a great time to take a quick look at the things that help keep you feeling your best—making sure medications are filled, keeping your usual supplies handy, and staying mindful of those early signs that an exacerbation might be trying to sneak in. A little preparation now can make these chilly days a lot smoother.

December also has a way of making us pause and look back on the year. We’ve had moments of change, moments of strength, and moments that reminded us just how important this community is. We’ve had to say goodbye to friends far too soon, and they remain close to our hearts. We’ve also welcomed new faces and leaned on the steady support of those who’ve been with us for years.

So as we settle into this month, let’s take care of ourselves, look out for each other, and keep sharing the support and kindness that make this space feel like home. Here’s to a gentle, grounded, hopeful December for all of us!💙🧡

Hello! Our next BronchandNTM360social Coffee Break is Wednesday, December 10, 2025 @ 2:30pm EST.
We will end the year with an open Questions and Answer session.  It would be great if we could have some questions submitted in advance of the coffee break.
Please plan to ask your questions during our discussion or email them to us at contactus@bronchandntm.org


Thank you! :) 

Hello! When at the doctor’s office, it’s important to take measures that will reduce exposure to germs. Some examples are using a paper towel to turn off the bathroom faucet, using a tissue for the elevator buttons and door handles. Wearing a N95 mask is optional in most offices today, but I would recommend it in some healthcare settings.  Below are some links to CDC resources on infection control measures: https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/about/index.html

Are you currently using telehealth? Below is a link to updates Federal policies related to telehealth: https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/telehealth-policy/telehealth-policy-updates

Welcome to the month of December!
I hope that the month is tolerable and not too burr for us. Get your scarves 🧣 out to cover your mouth and nose when you are out and about.
Throughout this month, we will review infection control measures to lessen the chances of getting respiratory infections. We will review environmental conditions that can impact our health in the winter months. We will discuss healthy communication with family and friends so that they understand our often invisible respiratory condition, at the times when you are feeling well or are not feeling well . Lastly, we will address holiday stressors that could impact our physical and emotional health. We desire to assist you in finding joy throughout the month. Let us know if you have any specific questions. 

Hello! I hope that you had a lovely Thanksgiving holiday. Managing our personal energy throughout busy times of the year is challenging for many patients. Some individuals experience a greater level of fatigue when they push themselves too much, other patients do not feel a high level of fatigue. Below is an article I wrote years ago on tips for energy management that I thought it may assist you during the upcoming winter holidays. Please let me know if you have any questions or comments with some of your energy management tips. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/52/Energy-Management-The-Key-to-Living-with-NTMBronchiectasis

Here are my big Black Friday plans. Happy weekend, friends. 

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone 🦃

On this Thanksgiving Holiday, I want to honor your strength, resilience, and the courage you show every single day. Living with Bronchiectasis and NTM isn’t easy, and yet you continue to meet each challenge with determination, hope, and a big heart.May this season remind you of the small victories—clearer breaths, moments of rest, connection with loved ones, and the support of a community that truly understands you. You are not alone in this journey. Your perseverance inspires others more than you know.Wishing you warmth, comfort, and gentle days ahead.Happy Thanksgiving—may it bring peace, gratitude, and healing over time. Make the best of your day.:) Katie

Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🍁🍽 Day!Below are some Thanksgiving quotes to share with your family and friends:, https://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/holidays/thanksgiving/thanksgiving-quotes

Hello! Below is a Chronic Illness Survival Guide, from the Mighty website. The holidays can be a time of celebration, fun and high energy for some people. Many BNTM individuals experience fatigue , especially when dealing with a respiratory infection that can impact our daily lives.  This fatigue can be especially impacted around the holidays if we push way beyond our normal routines. Some of the tips in the guide below apply to BNTM individuals, some may not. The purpose of the guide is to communicate honestly with others about any limitations that you may have, to be compassionate with yourself. Let me know if any particular suggestion appeals to you. https://themighty.com/topic/chronic-illness/chronic-illness-holiday-survival-guide/

Are you a caregiver? The link below includes frequently asked questions for patients with COPD. Some of the questions and answers are applicable to the BNTM community, some are not. Do you have any specific questions regarding caregiving for an individual with BNTM? We are here to assist you. https://www.copdfoundation.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Caregiver/FAQ-for-Caregivers.aspx

Hello!Thanksgiving is around the corner. Do you have a favorite quote on the topic of gratitude? Below is a list of 25 quotes on the topic of gratitude. Let us know if one specific quote touches your heart ♥. https://www.azquotes.com/quotes/topics/gratitude.html

Hello!  Boosting your immune system with good nutrition is essential as we approach the holidays and the winter months. Taking a one a day vitamin is recommended by most health care professionals.  Additionally, supplemental Vitamin D is recommended if your vitamin D levels are low. Below is an article on top immune boosting foods - please note that not all foods on this list are good for individuals with acid reflux: https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/7-foods-fight-back-immune-system-boosters/

Hello! I realize that this is a busy week of the year for many members. Please do not forget to include your airway clearance into your daily activities. As the health care professionals repeat over and over again “ Airway Clearance, Airway Clearance, Airway Clearance…”, as the best way to manage Bronchiectasis. The link below reviews the different airway clearance devices and the meds for airway clearance: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/Coping-with-Airway-Mucus

Getting Winter-Ready — Simple Steps to Stay Safe and Cozy

As winter edges closer, it’s the perfect time to get ahead of the cold before snow and ice arrive. A few thoughtful steps can go a long way in keeping you healthy and comfortable:

🩺 Schedule your appointments early. If you’re due for a physical or eye exam, try to get them done before the weather turns rough.

🧣 Bring out the comfort. Wash and air out your winter blankets and comforters so they’re ready when the chill sets in.

❄ Plan ahead for snow removal. Whether it’s a neighbor, friend, or local service, having help lined up before a storm hits saves stress later.

☕ Stock up the pantry. Keep favorites like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, soups, and broths ready — they’re comforting and help with hydration too.

🛒 Arrange for groceries. Make plans now for someone to help with deliveries or pickups if you can’t get out safely.

💊 Check with your doctor about cold medicines. Always be sure cough syrups, throat lozenges, or over-the-counter meds are safe for you and won’t interfere with your prescriptions.

✨ Think through before you do. A little planning now can make your winter easier and the holidays brighter!

Hello! As we approach the holiday season, it is a good time to review preventative measures to lessen exacerbations in BNTM individuals.  As the old cliche says “ An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure “. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/91/Preventing-Winter-Exacerbations-in-Bronchiectasis-and-NTM-Patients

This year’s theme for World COPD Day is “ Short of Breath, think COPD. The RT magazine article below discusses the need for more diagnostic testing to be done early on for people with shortness of breath. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment early on will improve the quality of life for many individuals: https://respiratory-therapy.com/disorders-diseases/chronic-pulmonary-disorders/copd/world-copd-day-2025/?utm_term=RT%20Five%20Nov%202025&utm_campaign_type=newsletter&utm_hsid=346581813&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_9IlSWeAeVLh2ktc3RNQ00qbMNN5UCBAJ88j7h4bxN67iY8MaaF_Z-i4TsD1A8WV_rcAanm-JkwfQJIjAKqA2SaHJuyQ&_hsmi=390537346&utm_source=newsletter

Hello! As we celebrate World COPD day, I am posting information about the significant overlap of Bronchiectasis and COPD: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/COPD-Bronchiectasis-Overlap

Hello! Are you free tomorrow 11/19/25@11am,EST? 
 The COPD Foundation is excited to be hosting a special live session about one of our most unique programs: Harmonicas for Health. Tune in at https://lnkd.in/gw-xgVTx 
at 11 a.m. Eastern Time for this virtual session. Grab your harmonica and get ready to make some noise!
The Harmonicas for Health program, created by respiratory therapists, teaches patients to mimic pursed-lip breathing, which may make breathing easier and lessen the stress of not being able to breathe well.

Exciting news around the globe- Brinsupri has been approved by the European Commission, as the first drug for non cystic fibrosis patients. Details of this announcement are in the link below: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/european-commission-approves-brinsupri-brensocatib-as-the-first-and-only-treatment-approved-for-non-cystic-fibrosis-bronchiectasis-in-the-european-union-302618805.html

Have you been tested or are you interested in being tested for Alpha 1Antitrypsin Deficiency Disorder? Information on the diagnostic test is in the link below:,https://alpha1.org/testing-diagnosis/