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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

https://social.bronchandntm.org/articles/blog/Raising-a-Child-When-You-Are-Dealing-with-Bronchiectasis-andor-NTM-Lung-disease

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. 🎈

🚀✨ 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?

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.

https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/52

Your work environment can have a big impact on your lung health, especially when you have chronic lung disease.

Common risks include exposure to:
💨Airborne irritants such as dust, fumes, mold, or chemicals that can irritate your airway and cause lung damage over time.
🦠 Bacteria and viruses that can cause respiratory infections.
❄Cold or damp air, which can contribute to more frequent exacerbations.

These risks can affect people in many different types of jobs. For example, construction workers, firefighters, hairstylists, and house cleaners may all face exposure to airborne irritants. Meanwhile, teachers, health care workers, and those in other professions involving close contact with others often face increased risk of illness.

To protect your lungs at work, keep these tips in mind:
✨Wear protective gear as appropriate.
✨Get vaccinated to reduce the risk of illness.
✨Ask your employer for accommodations as needed.

Has your workplace ever impacted your lung health? Share additional tips to protect your lungs and your overall well-being in the comments!

ER or Urgent Care with Bronchiectasis & NTM—What to Know.
There are times when going to the ER or urgent care is the right call with
bronchiectasis or NTM. A little preparation can help you protect yourself and
get more personalized care. Things to keep in mind:• Exposure to infections –
These settings often include people with respiratory illnesses, increasing the
risk of flare-ups or secondary infections.• Limited familiarity with BNTM – Not
all providers specialize in bronchiectasis or NTM. Baseline symptoms (like
chronic cough) may be misunderstood, and exacerbations can be missed.•
Antibiotic use – “Just in case” antibiotics may not always be the best fit.
They can disrupt your microbiome, promote resistance, and impact future treatment
options.• Lack of continuity – ER care is often one-time. Your history,
cultures, and past responses may not be fully considered.• Environment matters
– Dry air, long waits, and stress can worsen symptoms.

When to go (don’t wait):

Significant shortness of breath, chest pain, more than small
streaks of blood, high fever with worsening symptoms, or dropping oxygen
levels. How to prepare: Bring a simple BNTM info card with: Diagnosis
(bronchiectasis + NTM type if known), Medications, Antibiotics that
have/haven’t worked, Specialist contact info. You can also bring your Action
Plan or Management Tool from the Bronchiectasis and NTM Initiative. Helpful
tips: Wear an N95/KN95. Ask for a less crowded waiting area if possible. Stay
hydrated. Advocate for targeted antibiotics. A few proactive steps can make a
big difference—helping you stay a step ahead instead of reacting to a flare.💬
What has helped you feel more prepared during an ER or urgent care visit?

ER or Urgent Care with Bronchiectasis & NTM—What to KnowThere are times when going to the ER or urgent care is the right call with bronchiectasis or NTM. A little preparation can help you protect yourself and get more personalized care.Things to keep in mind:• Exposure to infections – These settings often include people with respiratory illnesses, increasing the risk of flare-ups or secondary infections.• Limited familiarity with BNTM – Not all providers specialize in bronchiectasis or NTM. Baseline symptoms (like chronic cough) may be misunderstood, and exacerbations can be missed.• Antibiotic use – “Just in case” antibiotics may not always be the best fit. They can disrupt your microbiome, promote resistance, and impact future treatment options.• Lack of continuity – ER care is often one-time. Your history, cultures, and past responses may not be fully considered.• Environment matters – Dry air, long waits, and stress can worsen symptoms.When to go (don’t wait):
Significant shortness of breath, chest pain, more than small streaks of blood, high fever with worsening symptoms, or dropping oxygen levels.How to prepare:Bring a simple BNTM info card with:Diagnosis (bronchiectasis + NTM type if known) Medications Antibiotics that have/haven’t worked Specialist contact info You can also bring your Action Plan or Management Tool from the Bronchiectasis and NTM Initiative.Helpful tips:Wear an N95/KN95 Ask for a less crowded waiting area if possible Stay hydrated Advocate for targeted antibiotics. A few proactive steps can make a big difference—helping you stay a step ahead instead of reacting to a flare.💬 What has helped you feel more prepared during an ER or urgent care visit?

ER or Urgent Care with Bronchiectasis & NTM—What to Know

Sometimes, going to the ER or urgent care is necessary when you’re living with bronchiectasis or NTM. But a little preparation can help you protect yourself and get the right care.

Things to keep in mind:

• Exposure to infections – These settings often include people with respiratory illnesses, which can increase risk of flare-ups or secondary infections.

• Limited familiarity with BNTM – Not all providers specialize in bronchiectasis or NTM. Baseline symptoms (like chronic cough) may be misunderstood, and exacerbations can be missed.

• Antibiotic use – “Just in case” antibiotics may not always be the best choice. They can disrupt your microbiome, promote resistance, and impact future treatment options.

• Lack of continuity – ER care is often one-time. Your history, cultures, and past responses may not be fully considered.

• Environment matters – Dry air, long waits, and stress can worsen symptoms.

When to go (don’t wait):
Significant shortness of breath, chest pain, more than small streaks of blood, high fever with worsening symptoms, or dropping oxygen levels.

How to prepare:

Bring a quick BNTM info card with:

Diagnosis (bronchiectasis + NTM type if known)
Medications
Antibiotics that have/haven’t worked
Specialist contact info

Also consider bringing your Action Plan or Management Tool from the Bronchiectasis and NTM Initiative.

Helpful tips:

Wear an N95/KN95
Ask for a less crowded waiting area if possible
Stay hydrated
Advocate for targeted (not automatic) antibiotics

Taking a few proactive steps can make a big difference—helping you stay a step ahead instead of reacting to a flare.

💬 What has helped you feel more prepared during an ER visit or urgent care visit?

Today is Alpha-1 Awareness Day in Europe - this day is dedicated to learn more about alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (#AATD) and raise awareness of this rare lung condition.

Understanding Alpha-1 is an important step towards earlier diagnosis, better care and support for affected individuals.

We made it to Friday! 🙌😄

Weekend mode is officially within reach… and however you spend it, make it yours. Maybe it’s a short stroll, a favorite show on repeat (we all have one 😄), time with family, or settling into your go-to cozy spot.

For our bronchiectasis & NTM crew, weekends can still come with their routines—airway clearance, meds, and pacing things out—but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for those “feel good” moments along the way.

A few friendly reminders as you head into the weekend:
💧 Stay hydrated
🫁 Keep up with airway clearance (future you will thank you!)
💊 Keep those meds on track
⏸️ And give yourself permission to pause when your body asks for it

Because the best weekends aren’t about doing everything—they’re about doing what works for you and keeps things feeling steady.

Wishing you a weekend full of comfort, a few bright moments, and maybe even a little extra ease in your breathing. 🌿

💬 What’s your weekend plan… sticking with your routine, sneaking in something fun, or a little bit of both?

Hello everyone! 💙

I wanted to share a helpful resource for anyone living with NTM. The NTM Management Tool is designed to support you along your journey by bringing together education, tools, and helpful tips all in one place.

It covers things like airway clearance, medications, and tracking how you’re feeling day to day, which can really help when getting ready for appointments with your healthcare provider. It also walks through treatment expectations, goal setting, and ways to find support.

If you’re looking for something to help you stay organized and more in tune with your symptoms, this could be a great place to start.

I’ll drop the link below — feel free to take a look and let us know what you think! 😊

https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/65

Hello! Below is a link for the NTM Management Tool- this tool will assist you on your NTM Journey. This management tool lists the education, tools, and resources that will assist you in living well with NTM lung disease. Tools and techniques include regular airway clearance, medications, and more. The tool reviews the basics of NTM management and helps you track symptoms so you are better prepared for your visit with your healthcare provider. Lastly, the tool reviews treatment expectations, goal setting, and provides links for support.

https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/65

Hello! Below is a link for the NTM Management Tool- this
tool will assist you on your NTM Journey. This management tool lists the tools,
education, and resources you’ll need to live with NTM lung disease. Tools and
Techniques include regular airway clearance, medications, and more. The tool
reviews the basics of NTM management and helps you track symptoms so you are
better prepared for your visit with your healthcare provider. Lastly, the tool
reviews treatment expectations, goal setting, and provides links for support.

https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/65

Hello! Below is a link for the NTM Management Tool- this tool
will assist you on your NTM Journey. This
management tool lists the tools, education, and resources you’ll need to live
with NTM lung disease. Tools and Techniques include regular airway clearance,
medications, and more. The tool reviews the basics of NTM management and helps
you track symptoms so you are better prepared for your visit with your
healthcare provider. Lastly, the tool reviews treatment expectations, goal
setting, and provides links for support.

https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/65

https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/65

I'm quite happy to find this group. I was diagnosed with NTM in 2019. Treated for 18 months and also treated for relapse in 2023. In December 2015 I was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis. Since that time, I believe I have had two, what I believe to be, flares, but need some symptom clarification.  Specifically, I had horrible coughing, mucus production, fatigue and fever and extreme chills. However, I also had terrible body/muscle pain and headache, and it never crossed my mind that it could be a flare. I thought I had Influenza.  All these symptoms occurred once again.  They were severe enough that my husband wanted me to go to the ER.  Do others with this disease have the additional symptoms?