Recent diagnosis
I was diagnosed in August 2025 with Bronchectasis and COPD due to environmental allergies. Sometimes I just can't differentiate which issue is to blame.😕 I am also being treated for NTM. I get confused and frustrated with all the information that I read on line. I find it hard to explain to others that I may look ok on the outside but inside , I*m a mess. It's like I'm being seen but not heard. Thanks for letting me vent.
Hi
. Welcome to the community! A diagnosis of COPD can be really confusing because it's really an umbrella term for certain lung diseases that have progressed to a point where they all benefit from similar treatments. You won't be able to differentiate between your bronchitis and your COPD because they are the same. Your bronchitis has progressed to a point where you need some of the same treatments at people with other illness, like asthma or emphysema , that have reached COPD-levels. Here is an article that explains it better than I can: https://copd.net/basics/damaged-lungs.
I hope your symptoms improve as the treatment for nontuberculous mycobacteria progresses. How long has your treatment been underway so far? Do antibiotics seem to make a difference?
Here is an article you can share with some of those people in your life who don't seem to understand the pain and frustration of COPD: https://copd.net/living/invisible-symptoms. I hope this helps. Please know we're here for you whenever you need us. Warmly, Lori (Team Member)My NTM was diagnosed August 2025. On going treatment of 3 antibiotics for the next 7mos 3x wkly. Also, CT scans and blood work every 3mos.
With the treatment so far... no better or worse.
From what I understand, treatment can last a very long time. I hope you see some improvement soon. Thinking of you. - Lori (Team Member)
Thank you🙂
