New Bronchiectasis looking for advice

Hi. I am 49 and was diagnosed 6 weeks ago. Like most people never heard of it.

When I found out I was in shock, emotional, had lots of unanswered questions.

Thankfully I have a very good consultant who went through everything with me. I did not even know anything was wrong just had a cough for a while and went to the doctors. I am now taking symbicort which helps to prevent chest infections and using a acapello for sputum. I have three children one is 15 and a full time job which can be exhausting at times. I have now come to terms with it but still learning new things. Its not as bad as i thought it would be. Stay positive .x

hello.

It would seem that the illness is as varied as the people that have it. IO guess all the usual advice would apply i.e. diet exercise etc but tobviously depends on your health status at the time. The one thing I have learned is to get help as soon as you even have an inkling that there is something going on. Don't wait.

Good luck. I hope others reply to you.

john

You will find plenty of help here.

I was diagnosed ten years ago,

My condition is mild.

I now live a good active life because

I was referred to a physio. She taught

me the breathing exercises which you 

too can learn.

I do mine at the end of the day.

Sometimes during the day.

Clears the lungs and gives to an increase in

lung capacity etc etc

There are also early trials of Stem Cell therapy 

for COPD patients. So, keep a look out for developments there.

You can have a normal life and sleep.

 

Which country are you in?

oh this thread is proving very helpful indeed,

Thank you Jockeys for starting it!

My only tips are

* to spend as much time with the physiotherapy department as possible

* avoid a hymoptysis if at all possible

* not to push ourselves work wise too much when we feel unwell ( it really isn't a good idea at all)

* and i find having a good laugh to be invaluable

Hello, I'm 16 with bronchiectasis, just wanted to let you know that we are all here to help. The most important thing is to listen to your doctors and physiotherapists, they have helped me alot. 

Hi Jockey,  Let me give you some encouragement.  I am 86 year old female who probably  had bronchiectasis long before Duke Medical Center diagnosed me.     I take care of myself by using a Smart Vest,  drinking lots of water,  recently started useing a nebulizer.  My life did not stop.  I slowed down a bit and rest when I need to.  

You are 44?  I hope you have at least 42 good years, like me.   

Rocking in a rocking chair has help me over the year.  Old ones are most comfortable and readily found quite inexpensive at thrift shops and Habitat for Humanity.  The rocking help my breathing.  Try it.