Recently diagnosed with bronchiectasis

[LizPat30]

Hi everyone, my first post on this forum it will be great to communicate with others who have similar problems. I have recently been diagnosed with bronchiectasis, it was quite a shock. I have a long wait to see someone from the RESPS team but have been practicing the cycle of breathing. My question is does anyone else with bronchiectasis use any alternative treatments. I'm exercising, eating healthily but I'm so breathless, any ideas of what else I can try. All ideas appreciated.

[14Lauren]

Hi Liz, my mother has the same condition you have. She is involved, in a Form of Pulmonary Exercise at her local hospital. Although, she was hesitate at first, she has really found it beneficial and has been happy with her achievements. Overall, it has been a valuable experience for her. Sending you best wishes. Julie

[LizPat30 in reply to 14Lauren]

Thank you that's really kind.

[RoadRunner44]

I have bronchiectasis and was diagnosed 5 or 6 years ago. Unfortunately I also have prediabetes. I am still in the process of tests so am interested to know how your bronchiectasis was picked up and what is the situation with you at the moment. I take an antibiotic daily via a nebulizer. Its called Colymycin. Are you on any medication?

[LizPat30 in reply to RoadRunner44]

Sorry for the late reply I missed your post. My bronchiectasis was diagnosed after CT scan and bronchoscopy. I was taken ill in April with what I thought was a chest infection but breathing got worse. At the moment I'm taking a steroid inhaler daily, this is to help with the inflammation in my lungs which is poor. Hopefully this will reduce soon. How breathless are you, this is what I find really difficult.

[SChatt54]

Hi I was diagnosed with bronchiectasis a year ago I am on carbocisteine capsules 3 times a day however have been coughing badly due to a tickle in my throat for a couple of months now so saw my GP Friday and I am now taking the syrup 3 times a day so will have to see how that works however I do find doing breathing exercises that the respiratory team showed me 3 times a day helps also when taking deep breaths and holding them for as long as you can helps too.

Also drinking plenty of water to help loosen the mucus. Also gargling with salt.

I also sleep propped up on 4 pillows which also helps a lot. If you have a long wait to see respiratory team I would suggest you see your GP. Feel free to talk to me anytime I too was terrified when first diagnosed with endless of scans etc but I can rely on both the hospital and GP. Be sure to keep phoning your hospital to see if they have any cancellations or ask to speak to one of the secretaries for resp. and tell them about your breathing to see if they can give you an earlier appointment after all they don't know how you're suffering if you don't tell them. Good luck Liz

[LizPat30 in reply to SChatt54]

Thank you so much that's so kind and helpful. I have now had my resp appointment plus a diagnosis of asthma. Feeling pretty good, just keep trying to stay healthy.