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BronchandNTM360social welcomes new member Charles (Chuck) Daley who
joins 5,375 current members of our community.
We're glad you're here!
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I started taking the newly approved BE medicine Brensupri in February of 2026. I'm interested in any feedback from others who are also using this medicine.
Thank you
Brandon,
Hello! Adorable dogs, :). Wishing you a day full of smiles and peace as well.
Hello! I hope that you are having a good day as well. :)
âď¸ Good morning, BronchandNTM360social! âď¸
Just wanted to check in and wish everyone a really good day today. đ Whether youâre tackling treatments, trying to pace yourself, enjoying a little fresh air, or simply making it through the day one step at a time, weâre glad youâre here.
Howâs everybody doing today? Any wins, questions, good news, favorite photos, or even just a quick hello to share with the community?
Wishing you plenty of deep breaths, small smiles, and hopefully a peaceful day ahead. đ¨đź
Ellen,
You are most welcome! Being on a lo Fodmap diet can be challenging on a long term basis. I hope that you have a great GI/ Integrative Health Care Provider or Registered Dietitian to assist you.
Kalli, Thank you for this great post. It is great to read about the research done about the differences in the outcomes of lung diagnoses in women and men. I look forward to reading updates as more research unfolds.
Did you know that bronchiectasis can have a more significant impact on women than men?
Studies show that women:
đş may be more likely to develop bronchiectasis
đş are more likely to develop bronchiectasis at an earlier age
đş experience greater social and emotional impacts from the disease
In honor of National Womenâs Health Week (May 10-16), read the latest research on sex-based disparities in health care experiences for chronic lung disease. Check out the article in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases: Journal of the COPD Foundation from our friends at the COPD Foundation.
Read the article here: https://copdf.co/perceived-differences
Hello! Many respiratory symptoms overlap. How is bronchiectasis like asthma? Bronchiectasis inflammation is usually the result of a lung infection. Your immune system responds to infections. They release chemicals that cause airway inflammation. When this happens, it can damage the tissues lining the airways and eventually lead to airway scarring.
This scarring causes airways to become abnormally dilated. This causes mucus secreted by airway cells to become thick and sticky. The accumulation of thick, sticky mucus in the airways creates a breeding ground for germs to collect. This is why people with bronchiectasis are prone to repeated lung infections.
Bronchiectasis and asthma are both associated with an immune response. They both can cause flare-ups. Common symptoms of both are shortness of breath and coughing. Asthmatic airways are hypersensitive. This makes them âspasmâ when youâre exposed to your asthma triggers. It also caused increased mucus production. This is what causes shortness of breath and coughing due to asthma. These flare-up episodes are both treated and controlled with asthma medicine.
Repeated respiratory infections worsen airway inflammation. Mucus can become thick and obstruct the airways. This is what triggers bronchiectasis flare-ups. This is what causes shortness of breath and coughing due to bronchiectasis. These episodes will not respond to asthma medicine. Treatment usually entails antibiotics and other treatments.
Unlike asthma, bronchiectasis sputum tends to be colorful. It may be yellow, green, or even bloody. Bronchiectasis may also present with fatigue, fever, chills, weight loss, and night sweats. Do you have both asthma and bronchiectasis? Let us know if you have any questions.
Hi - thank you for your feedback. I've been eating low Fodmap for a couple of years. I'll let you know what the SIBO results are. Appreciate the feedback.
Hi Val A. Welcome to the community. Check ins are meant for quick status updates such as saying hi or letting everybody know how you're doing. Some of us share photos of pets or other fun things. As more posts are added to the activity feed they move further down off of page 1, so they are not as visible to the community.
Discussions are for more in depth discussions and will remain visible to the community much longer. Every time someone adds a reply it will display in the feed, no matter when the discussion was added, so it can be visible on the feed many times adding more visibility to the discussion.
The comment about sharing personal medical info is just reminding you it's a public community, so for security and privacy it's best not to share names and addresses and things like that.
Hello - I was happy to hear about this site from a newsletter. I was going to do so. However, I'm confused about the note I see below that reads, "Please do not share private medical information in your check-in text or photos." Are these types of disclosures meant for the discussions section?
Robin,
Hello! Gut issues are common post-antibiotics. I am glad to read that Pantoprazole is helping you with your symptoms. Being under the care of a GI doctor or a great Primary Care Provider while on PPIs is of utmost importance. Are you interested in seeing a registered dietician as well? Dieticians can review trigger foods, and perhaps assist you in eventually weaning off or lowering the PPI usage in the future.
Ellen,
Hello! Welcome to the community! Are you currently seeing a registered dietician who understands your gut issues? Many insurance plans now cover dieticians with a copay. I would suggest getting a referral from your GI doctor after your breath test results come in. Try to avoid gassy foods, such as high-carbohydrate foods, especially in the evening. Have you heard or researched the low FODMAP diet? This diet can be confusing and overwhelming with all of the restrictions, but a Registered Dietitian can guide you through it.
Great new site...
I am also new, and have had the same issues. Believe it or not, Pantaprazole has really helped my gut issues.
Hi everyone - just joined. I have had Bronchiectasis for almost 10 years. Over the past 3, I've been medicated 4 times for flares which resulted in recurrent C Diff. After a year of daily Vancomycin my ID doc decided to stop. Since stopping I've had a lot of gut issues - bloating, loss stools, gas and a lot of discomfort. Wondering if anyone shares this experience and if so, has anything helped? Thank you so much. Also working with a Gastro on SIBO testing and will know those results soon.
Hello! May is Allergy & Asthma Awareness Month đđ
For those in the BNTM community, allergies and asthma symptoms can add another layer of challenge to everyday breathing, energy, and overall wellness. Seasonal pollen, environmental irritants, smoke, dust, fragrances, and changes in air quality may all affect respiratory health and increase inflammation or coughing in some patients.
This month is a reminder to:
đż Pay attention to triggers
đż Keep rescue and maintenance medications available for use as needed
Practice good airway clearance routines
đż Monitor indoor air quality
đż Rest when your body needs it
đż Reach out for support if symptoms change
Most importantly, remember that every breath matters â and small daily steps toward protecting lung health can make a meaningful difference over time. To all BNTM patients, caregivers, and families: you are seen, supported, and stronger than you know. đ
Janh,
Thank you for reporting positive news on Brinsupri. I am so happy to read that you are breathing better.
I like Katie's idea or the under-mattress wedge. Seems like if you use a wedge pillow, you may have the tendency to roll off of it on occasion.
That's great news! Many will appreciate your feedback.
The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association website has a fresh new look with the same amazing information and a refreshed design that is easier to navigate and explore!
Be sure to check out our Events Calendar for the latest list of activities taking place in honor of World Bronchiectasis Day. New events will be added as they are scheduled, so remember to check back often. https://social.bronchandntm.org/events
Hi Janh,
Have you tried a huff cough? This technique keeps your glottis open and can help you achieve a deeper, more effective cough. Here is the page that walks you through how to perform this maneuver:
Please let me know if you have any questions.
The new website and community platform look AMAZING!!! Thank you to our incredible IT team for a job well done!
Pam,
One has to try these pillows and decide which one is best, most stable for them. Have you considered an adjustable bed? My adjustable bed works wonders for me. Mattress stores usually have sales several times each year.
Hello! Have you seen an Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor for your post nasal drip?
Yes currently on antibiotics I think the Nebulizers is getting my sinuses drainage and I have post nasal drip
Janh
Hello! Are you on antibiotics? Have you had a sputum culture recently?
My issue is constantly coughing up yellow mucus that sits in my throat I donât cough deep itâs just constantly there. It is worst when I eat and talk any suggestions would be appreciated
Has anyone purchased an under mattress wedge to help with nighttime acid reflux? It seems it might work better than a wedge pillow.
Wishing everyone a lovely Mother's Day weekend!
I am so excited to witness this new chapter unfold for the BNTM community. This new site will provide updated educational materials to empower you on your journey. We are here to support you on each step along the way. We are the BNTM family. :)
Big things are happening at Bronchiectasis and NTM 360social! đ
Our brand-new community experience is beginning to roll out, and weâre so excited for you to see whatâs 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 â but every update is designed with our community in mind. Weâre building a space thatâs 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. Itâs about the people who make it feel like home. đ
Thank you for your patience, your excitement, and for growing alongside us as we step into this next chapter together. We canât 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 â and weâre so glad youâre part of it.
Hello! Happy Motherâs 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. đ
đˇ Happy Motherâs Day to all the moms, bonus moms, caregivers, daughters, grandmas, chosen family members, and the people who step in with love exactly when itâs needed most. đ
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 âthe nebulizer is done!â from the other room. đ
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, weâre thinking of you too. đ¸
Happy Motherâs Day from all of us at BronchandNTM360social
â and may your weekend include laughter, restful moments, supportive company, and at least one treatment session that cooperates without beeping halfway through. đ
Hello! As Motherâs Day is approaching, I thought I would share an article with you about raising a child when you have Bronchiectasis/ NTM
Please let me know if you have any questions. Katie
đ
How Communities Can Help Womenâs Mental Health:
It is not just up to women to take care of their own mental health; itâs 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 Womenâs Mental Health- Stigma is one of the main problems women have to deal with. A lot of women donât ask for help because theyâre afraid of being judged or called âweak.â Womenâs 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 womanâs 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.
Itâs 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 doâoffering comfort in the hardest moments, advocating for their patientsâ 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?
đđŽ Cinco de Mayo Vibes on Bronchiectasis & NTM 360Social! đŽđ
Todayâs a great excuse to add a little color, a little rhythm, and a little joy to the dayâwhatever that looks like for you. đđş
Maybe itâs 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 âcelebratingâ counts. đ
đŹ Letâs make it fun:
Whatâs adding a little flavor to your day today?
Whether itâs something festive or something simple, weâd love to hear. And if today is more ârest and rechargeâ than âfiesta,â thatâs just as worth celebrating. đ
CT findings can sometimes suggest NTM/MAI even when cultures stay negative. It might be worth discussing with your pulmonologist about repeat sputum testing over time or a referral to a bronchiectasis/NTM specialty center for a second opinion.
đ⨠May the 4th Be With You⌠and may your lungs find a little extra ease today. đ
Happy Star Wars Day, Bronchiectasis & NTM community!
Some days feel like a calm cruise through the galaxy⌠and others feel more like youâre dodging asteroids just to get through the day. If todayâs one of those tougher ones, just knowâtaking it slow, listening to your body, and getting through it your way is more than enough.
Letâs have a little fun with itâŚ
đŹď¸ Jedi-Level Breathing & Airway Clearance: Whether itâs your routine, your vest, or your go-to techniqueâfinding that steady rhythm can feel a lot like tapping into the Force. One step, one breath at a time.
đśââď¸ No Hyperspace Required: Energy can come and goâso whether today is a âdo a littleâ or a ârest and rechargeâ kind of day, both count.
𧰠Your Tools = Your Lightsaber: Nebulizers, inhalers, airway clearance devicesâthese are part of your toolkit to keep things moving and help you feel your best.
đ§ Trust Your Bodyâs Signals: You know your baseline. If something feels off, itâs okay to pause, adjust, or reach out to your care team.
And letâs be real for a secondâŚ
Even Darth Vader needed a pretty advanced setup to help him breathe đ
đŹ Now for the fun part:
If you had a Star Wars sidekick for your lung health journey, who would you pick?
đ§ââď¸ Yoda for calm, steady guidance?
đ¤ R2-D2 to keep everything running smoothly?
đž Chewbacca for strength on the tough days?
đ Leia for resilience and leadership?
Or someone else entirely?
Drop it belowâweâd love to hear!
However today looks for you, weâre glad youâre here. Take it at your pace, find your moments, and keep doing what works for you.
đ 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:
â¨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.
â¨When the air quality is bad, try to stay indoors. Save outdoor activities for good air quality days.
â¨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.
â¨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 Womenâs 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 womenâs 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. Womenâs 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 Womenâs 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 womenâs 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.Womenâs 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 Womenâs Mental Health Month Is Important: Itâs not enough to just be aware when it is Womenâs 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.
It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We make every effort to support our members, our medical professionals cannot and will not provide a diagnosis or suggest a specific medication; those decisions should be left to your personal medical team. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with COPD, please consult a physician before making changes to your own COPD management plan.
Community posts are monitored by the 360social Community Manager, as well as staff respiratory therapists, educators, and other medical professionals.