Acute mycobacterium infection

[Helenamay]

I have bronchiectasis and the above infection so I have been permanently on antibiotics for the last three and a half years. Unfortunately I have been suffering from palpitations lately which I think are caused by the medication but my GP is investigating other causes. My specialist says there are very few, if any other antibiotics I can take now which will help with the infection. Is anyone else in the same boat?

Many thanks to all who contribute to this page, it is good to know that you are not alone.

[Pentreath Volunteer]

Dear Helenamay

Firstly, welcome to our friendly site. So sorry to hear of the problems you are having. I have bronchiectasis and was investigated for mycobacterium a couple of years ago but was lucky as I did not have it. If there is anyone who has been treated for mycobacterium I am sure they will post to share their experiences.

[Helenamay in reply to Pentreath]

Thank you. At first the doc thought it was a tumour so at least it wasn't that but it has been a pain and a worry.

[Pentreath Volunteer in reply to Helenamay]

That is putting your situation mildly - freefaller suggestion is a good one and I hope you can be referred to one.

[freefaller]

Have you thought/asked about seeing a consultant immunologist? I still have my HIB infection and if this lot of antibiotics don't clear it up then that is what i am going to see if I can do.

[Helenamay]

No I haven't thought of that, so thank you for the suggestion.

[freefaller]

Consultant immunologists are few and far between think there are only 6 in the country and only one in the whole of Wales where I live so if this lot doesn't work will make a private appointment to see him.

Xoxoxoxo

[Helenamay]

Thank you - is the consultant immunologist in Cardiff? I live in Rhymney - in the valleys.

[Helenamay]

Thank you for replying. I am on Rifinah and Ethambutol but it has been three and a half years. I have permanent pins and needles which is a side effect, I have been told. Unfortunately my infection must be severe as the NHS consultant has said I will be on them for life.

Yes, I did have a bronchoscopy, that's how they knew it wasn't TB but bronchiectasis and this nasty, flipping infection and it was suggested I needed IVF antibiotics but my consultant decided against that. However I am going to see another consultant privately as I have not had a scan for 18 months. I am knackered too!

It has been good to hear from someone who knows how tiring it all is.

Many thanks again for taking the time to reply.

Kay