New to bronchiectasis and would like advice

Hi Jess,  I am 55 and was diagnosed only two years ago, but like you I have been a lifelong athlete coach exerciser.  Your body will teach you what it needs so listen carefully.    One of the symptoms that lead to my diagnosis was a cycle of going to the gym, running, getting in really good shape, and then getting pneumonia.  So you may have to taper your intensity some, settling for a walk instead of run some days.   If you've been an athlete, I know it can be difficult to distinguish between when you're being a little lazy, or discouraged, versus when you're sick or on the verge of getting sick.  And the sick come so quickly!  Prayer really helps me.  I know it can be scary to schedule out things like trips, because you never know, but I would say schedule them anyway. Give yourself something to look forward to.  Are you drinking at least 88 ounces of water a day? 

Hi.....I am aerobics teacher...and fellow sufferer....continue doing what you are doing....because moving and exercise helps, however pace yourself, listen to your body and do not push yourself or over do it....take one day at a time Samantha

HI Jess

I’m sorry that this is happening. Bronchiectasis is becoming more main stream and people are starting to understand it.

excercise   is so important for this.  It helps bring up the

Mucus and helps get the oxygen going.

I know how awful and tired you feel. 

Make yourself go out and at least walk.

Check with your local hospital to see if they have support groups,

Hi Jess !!  

I am brand new to this forum as well.  I am 57 and was diagnosed about 2 years ago. 

In 2014 I had a few bad cases of pneumonia but was given antibiotics which cleared things up at the time but then I developed a bad fungal infection in December 2014.  It was touch & go for 8 days in January 2015 but I made it!! 

I have to say,.... my life hasn’t been the same and I really wish there was an “in person” support group as well as the online support groups. 

At the same time I got the lung damage, I also had an abscess in my back so I have nerve damage and walk with a cane. 

I wasn’t told right away that Bronchiecdtasis was what I had.  I was simply told that I had damage from the incident in 2015. 

Every year it has gotten worse and in the last 4 yeàrs I’ve sent Christmas in the hospital for some medical reason or another.   It’s left me feeling ever so frustrated!! 

I think the hardest part is that I am not very active at all.  I get so winded just getting from our house to the car.  

With all the coughing I do, I feel so embarrassed especially when I’m st the dentist.  I have explained to my dentist many times that I have Bronchiectasis and that I’m not contagious but there are times I think they doubt me. 

Anyway Jess,  it is nice to meet you and everyone else in thd forum too!!! 

LynneB

Hi Jess

I am new to the bronch thing. Diagnosed 6 months ago. And have asthma most of my life.

I agree it can be quite isolating living with bronchietasis. In my experience people i talk to, even close family look at me like im talking another language when i want to mention it.

I am astounded that medical advances on this condition seem rather lacking. Ok mucus clearing is important in order to breathe, but I want radical medical approaches to ridding us of this condition, not walking around with chest sweets in my pocket or an acapella.

Sorry im at the bitter stage of this condition so bare with me please.

Jem