sinusitis and Bronchiectasis

[Sundaywalker]

I have been diagnosed mild Bronchiectasis following pneumonia last year . Am in 3rd week with sinusitis. Had GP assistant appt but antibiotics not prescribed anymore apparently just a spray. I am anxious that this doesn’t progress to exacerbation as am now coughing more and producing more mucus. Should I take the rescue antibiotics? I’ve only had one previous flare up this year so am new to self diagnosing. Anyone had similar issues?

[Dottie11]

I have both these conditions but also have an Immunology issue which means my treatment plan may differ from yours. Having said that if you are still struggling to clear an infection and been in hospital plus you have Bronch I would contact again for medical advice/help. Gp and you could also try your Respiratory Nurse or Consultant. If you have rescue antibiotics what are your instructions to use them ? Start extra daily lung pysio also. Try posting on Asthma/Lung Uk site. There are many wonderful people on there who can guide you. Hope you feel better soon.

[Sundaywalker in reply to Dottie11]

Thank you for replying. Much appreciated - am going to follow up as suggested

[Dottie11 in reply to Sundaywalker]

Your welcome. I am not sure how close you are to Winchester but they have a support group.

[Patk1]

Put a specimen of mucous in for testing for lungs.Have u tried a daily antihistamine and decongestant? They do help .I also use sterimar breathe easy daily whn need to - great for clearing sinuses and nose whn bad,3or4x day or whn at worst I irrigate sinuses with boiled water cooled,with a " bulb" - some people use netti pots.

[Dottie11 in reply to Patk1]

Good points. Sterimar breathe easy is the best product for my sinus. xx

[Mooka]

My sinus infections nearly always ended up with an infection on my lungs. I was under ENT as well and they all recommend neilmed sinus rinse on a daily basis. You can get the bottle on Amazon/ebay and make the the solution as per the NHS website. It’s really important to get rid of the gunk just as it is clearing your lungs. I used it twice a day when they were blocked. Although it’s not great doing it the instant relief is great. As for starting the rescue antibiotics as a general rule if your sputum turns green it’s time. Also time to take a sputum sample to your GP before starting them. As others have said sterimar is also helpful. I’ve had an operation to open up my sinuses which has relieved a lot of my problems. Good luck.

[Rattle in reply to Mooka]

I have a very similar history to you Mooka (incl sinus surgery) and agree completely about the Neilmed sinus rinses. It may take a bit to get used to the funny feeling but after using it regularly it has helped me stay on top of my sinus infections and it really helps keeping my chest clear. I hope it can be of help to you too Sundaywalker!

[Dottie11 in reply to Rattle]

Yes took a bit of getting used to but a game changer. xx

[Rattle in reply to Dottie11]

It really is! xx

[Dottie11 in reply to Mooka]

I am the same. If they tackle the Ear, Nose and Throat infections my lungs are spared most of the time. Rescue antibiotics area must. xx

[Carealot]

Sorry to hear you’re suffering. I too have bronchiectasis and eosinophilic asthma. Had severe pseudomonas in past and pneumonia last year. It took a while in the beginning to be referred to a specialist but since having lessons from a respiratory physio, I do daily lung clearance exercises (ACBT = Active Cycle of Breathing Technique). I suggest you check it out online. I agree with others who recommend Asthma Lung UK site but I‘ve also learnt lots from listening to others experiences and so belong to a carefully selected FB group Bronchiectasis Support Group. Ensure you get a respiratory specialist and physio. I can’t speak about sinusitis. For now, I’d get a sputum sample in if you see green as mentioned earlier - but also if you feel you’re coughing more or your mucus is changing in volume or slightly in colour. Don’t start antibiotics until you’ve done your sample as you need to know what’s best to treat it. Act asap if you can. I’m in my mid 70s. You press your GP! Good luck 🙂

[Dottie11 in reply to Carealot]

Hope you are feeling better. x

[Carealot in reply to Dottie11]

I try and live in the moment. Thanks. I hope you soon find relief

[Sundaywalker]

thank you all for the helpful suggestions