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Let’s Talk Morning Routines!
These are my top three products that I use every morning. I thought I’d made a quick video to show you how and why they are my favorites!! Click here to learn more about RefluxRaft and how it forms a raft on the top of our stomach to decrease reflux. I use RefluxRaft after breakfast and before bedtime. I want to prevent reflux and aspiration into my lungs which can cause bronchiectasis to worsen. It is an essential tool in my Reflux Tool Kit!!! ‼️As always, consult your physician before making any changes to your current care. BE CLEAR with Bronchiectasis, LLC is pleased to be collaborating with RefluxRaft. #refluxraft #acidrefluxrelief #guthealth #alginatetherapy #refluxsupport #yogaforreflux #wellnessjourney #bronchiectasis #chroniclunghealth #COPD
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 When I travel, I either order bottled spring water or bring my LARQ UV water bottle to reduce exposure to MAC bacteria.
Wondering how the water we drink—going into our stomachs—could lead to a MAC infection in our lungs???🤔🤔🤔 The answer comes down to two key factors: inefficient swallowing and gastric reflux. We all micro-aspirate liquids into our lungs throughout the day. This might happen when something “goes down the wrong pipe,” due to swallowing issues and coughing. For those with healthy lungs and immune systems, occasional micro-aspirations are not a concern. However, for people with impaired airways, this can be a potential pathway for inflammation and infection. Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is another way unwanted substances can enter the lungs. Both acid and non-acid gastric reflux can rise from the stomach and be aspirated into the airways. If this liquid contains bacteria that haven’t been neutralized by stomach acid, it may contribute to infection. To help reduce reflux, consider these GERD precautions: 🦠 Raise the head of your bed 🦠 Avoid eating for several hours before lying down 🦠 Maintain a healthy weight 🦠 Avoid trigger foods 🦠 Use an alginate Beyond addressing swallowing issues and GERD, we can also minimize bacterial exposure by drinking sterile water. If you opt for spring water, avoid water coolers, as MAC biofilm may line the inside of the machine. The same concern applies to refrigerator water dispensers, ice makers, and Brita-style charcoal filters. As I’ve mentioned in previous posts about environmental exposure, not everyone with bronchiectasis will develop these types of infections. However, there is about a 25% chance, and these precautions can help lower that risk. Some BE and MAC specialists advise patients to simply live their lives without fixating on bacteria, while others recommend preventive measures. It’s best to discuss your individual situation with your doctor to determine the right approach for you. Remember, bronchiectasis is a lifelong condition, and you can always make changes gradually over time. #bronchiectasis #maclungdisease #drfalkinham ##ntminfections  Save the date! Join Bronchiectasis/NTM Info & Research and Running on Air for an insightful webinar with Professor James Chalmers on the latest updates from the European Bronchiectasis Workshop & Forum on Respiratory Tract Infections.
✨Date: February 27 2025 ✨Time: 1 PM EDT Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed on groundbreaking research and advancements‼️ Register now: https://bit.ly/416hGQk #Bronchiectasis #PatientEducation  Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that specifically target and destroy bacteria. These microscopic predators outnumber all other organisms on Earth and thrive in diverse environments, including ponds, lakes, and oceans.
Phages resemble tiny robotic explorers, akin to microscopic land rovers on a mission. Each has a 20-sided head mounted on a tail equipped with leg-like fibers. Genetically programmed to attack a specific type of bacteria, a phage latches onto its bacterial host, punctures the cell wall with its tail, and injects its genetic material. This hijacks the bacterium’s cellular machinery, transforming it into a factory for producing new phages. Once the bacterium is filled with newly formed viruses, the phage releases an enzyme which ruptures the host cell, unleashing the next wave of phages to continue the cycle. Phages were first identified in 1915 by bacteriologist Frederick Twort and later studied extensively by scientist Félix d’Hérelle in 1917. D’Hérelle recognized their potential as antibacterial agents and pioneered phage therapy, establishing treatment centers across Eastern Europe. However, interest in phage therapy declined after the discovery of penicillin in 1928 by Alexander Fleming, leading to the widespread use of antibiotics. Now, with antibiotic resistance emerging as a global crisis, phage therapy is regaining attention as a promising alternative. A recent breakthrough came from the Phase 2 Tailwind study conducted by Armata Pharmaceuticals. It showed encouraging results for AP-PA02, an inhaled bacteriophage therapy targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. The findings support the potential of phage therapy as a standalone treatment or adjunct to reduce reliance on chronic antibiotics, particularly for drug-resistant infections. Armata Pharmaceuticals is now advancing toward a Phase 3 clinical trial, anticipated to begin this year. If successful, this could mark a significant step forward in combating pseudomonas lung infections. #PhageTherapy #Bacteriophage #Bronchiectasis #Phage #Pseudomonas #Biologic  BRIDGEWATER, N.J., Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Insmed Incorporated (Nasdaq: INSM), a people-first global biopharmaceutical company striving to deliver first- and best-in-class therapies to transform the lives of patients facing serious diseases, today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted the Company’s New Drug Application (NDA) for brensocatib for patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.
In its Day 60 communication to Insmed, the FDA granted Priority Review to the NDA and set a target action date of August 12, 2025, under the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA). At present, the FDA has not indicated whether an advisory committee will be convened to discuss the application. Brensocatib has the potential to become the first and only approved treatment for bronchiectasis and the first in a new class of medicines called dipeptidyl peptidase 1 (DPP1) inhibitors for the treatment of neutrophil-mediated diseases. “Bronchiectasis is a chronic, progressive disease with no approved treatments, leaving hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S. without an effective way to reduce the pulmonary exacerbations that can lead to serious consequences,” said Martina Flammer, M.D., MBA, Chief Medical Officer of Insmed. “Brensocatib has the potential to transform the treatment landscape for bronchiectasis and we were pleased to receive the FDA acceptance of our NDA with Priority Review even earlier than anticipated. We look forward to working with the FDA throughout the review process and, pending approval, bringing the first ever bronchiectasis treatment to patients as quickly as possible.” #brensocatib #bronchiectasis  Biologics: Not as Scary as They Sound
The word biologics might sound intimidating, but chances are, you’re already familiar with them—and may have even benefited from one. Biologics are medical treatments made from living organisms or their components, such as proteins, cells, or even bacteria. Unlike traditional medications, which are chemically synthesized, biologics are produced using biotechnology, making them highly specialized and often more effective for certain conditions. But if you’ve ever received a vaccine, you’ve already experienced the power of biologics. Many common vaccines, including those for the flu, hepatitis, HPV and COVID-19, are biologics. They work by stimulating your immune system to recognize and fight off harmful diseases, providing protection that can last for years. Twenty-five years ago, I underwent a hysterectomy to treat cervical carcinoma in situ caused by an HPV infection. Today, thanks to the HPV vaccine, I take comfort in knowing that my grandchildren are protected against this cancer-causing virus. Beyond vaccines, biologics are used to treat chronic illnesses like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain cancers. They can be life-changing for people with conditions that don’t respond well to traditional medications. While they may seem complex, the science behind biologics has been evolving for decades, leading to safer and more targeted treatments. So, the next time you hear the term biologic, don’t be intimidated. These innovative therapies are already part of everyday medicine, helping millions of people live healthier lives. Next week, I’ll discuss a biologic that is being used by people with chronic lung disease. #HPV #CancerPrevention #Vaccine #Biologic #Dupixent #CervicalCancer #Health #Prevention #Immunization #PeaceOfMind #Grandchildren #SafeFuture #HPVVaccine #MedicalAdvances #Innovation #CancerAwareness #FightCancer #PreventionMatters #LungMatters #AsthmaMatters #COPDMatters  I used to think I was eating healthy—until I got diagnosed.
Pasta and veggies. Rice and veggies. Potatoes and veggies. That was my go-to. But after my bronchiectasis and MAC diagnosis, I learned the hard way that protein is critical when dealing with inflammation and infection. Those days of carb-heavy meals? They’re long gone. One of my biggest lessons came from Michelle MacDonald, a nutritionist at National Jewish Health. In a webinar series sponsored by Bronchiectasis and NTM Info & Research, Michelle emphasized not only the importance of protein but also the need for a well-balanced diet—including protein, carbs, and fats—with a special focus on getting enough calories. 💥The Power of Protein💥 According to Michelle, protein should anchor every meal. And no, that doesn’t mean tossing a handful of garbanzo beans into your stir-fry. It means making a deliberate effort to get 20–30 grams per meal. Personally, I aim for the high 20s, four times a day. I think of protein as “spackle”—filling in the damage caused by inflammation and infection. I truly believe this was one of the key reasons I was able to clear a MAC infection without antibiotics—my body had what it needed to repair and rebuild. 💥Don’t Forget Carbs & Fats💥 While protein is essential, carbs and fats also play a crucial role in immunity and energy. If you’re not consuming enough, your body will start using protein for fuel instead—wasting it on energy instead of healing. 💥Trying to Gain Weight? Be Smart About Fiber💥 If you struggle with appetite or need to gain weight, Michelle recommends limiting fiber from fresh fruits, raw vegetables, and whole grains. These foods fill you up too quickly, so don’t make salads your main course! At the end of the day, airway clearance, exercise, and good habits all matter, but none of it works if your body doesn’t have the nutrients it needs to heal. #HealthyEating #EatForHealing #ProteinPower #Bronchiectasis #NTMLungDisease #NutritionMatters #RespiratoryHealth  For me, educating people about bronchiectasis isn’t just about explaining the disease—it’s also about advocating for early diagnosis. The sooner people receive the right care, the better their outcomes.
That’s why I actively share insights on LinkedIn, where I’ve built a strong community of over 8,000 connections, including many respiratory therapists and clinicians. Engaging with this network is another way I advocate for early detection, ensuring that more people recognize the signs of bronchiectasis and get the care they need as early as possible. ⭐️⭐️This is my latest LinkedIn post:⭐️⭐️ There are people who have bronchiectasis (BE) and also have asthma and/or COPD. However, according to Dr. Charles Daley, one of the top BE and NTM doctors in the world, there are others who are incorrectly diagnosed with asthma or COPD when, in fact, they have bronchiectasis. As he recently said: (This transcription may contain minor errors.) “I would go out on a limb here and say, even though I can’t prove this point, I think most people with bronchiectasis have never been diagnosed, because to get diagnosed, the clinician, the provider, has to order a CT scan. And if you don’t do that, then they’re going to just say your chronic cough is asthma, or it’s COPD, or as allergies is something else, but until you get the chest CT, you can’t see the dilated airways. And once you do that, then you can call this bronchiectasis. There are many paths that lead to the condition bronchiectasis, but the symptoms are really what should drive the thinking about bronchiectasis. So a person has a chronic cough for months, often it’s producing sputum. They often have recurrent infections, and we call those exacerbations… So those are the things that should key the clinician to say, maybe this isn’t asthma. Maybe I should get an imaging study and figure out if this is bronchiectasis.” Respiratory therapists: If you’re working with patients who are coughing, have sputum and are not improving on their current treatment, they might have bronchiectasis. Please bring it to the attention of your team physician. New bronchiectasis treatments are in the pipeline with some becoming available this year. These treatments could greatly improve the quality of life for your patients. #RespiratoryCare #PulmonaryHealth #RespiratoryTherapist #Bronchiectasis #NTM #Asthma #COPD  For the first and only time in 2025, I’m offering 10% off all my services for February—or until my schedule is fully booked. This won’t happen again this year‼️
Even at my regular rates, the value I provide is significant—which is why I don’t offer discounts often. When you book an initial consultation, here’s what you get: ✅ A detailed review of your questionnaire responses before we meet. ✅ A 75-minute deep dive into your concerns. ✅ A personalized set of resources curated just for you. But it doesn’t stop there. Once you become my client, you’re not just getting a one-time consultation—you’re gaining a trusted partner in your bronchiectasis journey. Who Am I? I’m Linda Cooper Esposito, MPH—Yale-educated, highly experienced, and fully dedicated to helping people with bronchiectasis live better lives. I currently work exclusively with bronchiectasis clients, and my LinkedIn recommendations span over a decade. Most importantly, I’m a good listener. Managing bronchiectasis isn’t one-size-fits-all, and I take the time to understand your lifestyle, your goals, and your challenges—no cookie-cutter templates. What I’m Not: ❌ I’m not ‘Coach Linda.’ I use my full name because I stand behind my work with credibility and integrity. ❌ I’m not a clinician, and I don’t give medical advice. Instead, I empower you with knowledge so you can make informed decisions with your healthcare team. ❌ I’m not here to judge. I support you, encourage best practices, and help you navigate your health—without shame or pressure. Ready to Get Started? Whether you’re booking for the first time or returning as a client, this is your chance to lock in my only all-services discount of 2025. Here’s how to book: 1️⃣ Visit LetsBeClearToday.com (link in bio) 2️⃣ Go to the Consultation page 3️⃣ Select a service and complete your booking https://www.letsbecleartoday.com/store/p2/Comprehensive_75_minute_consultation.html?#/ Once you book, I’ll personally reach out to schedule our Zoom or phone session—whichever you prefer! ‼️ Important: This is my only site-wide discount in 2025. Buy now, use it whenever—your purchase has no expiration date! Let’s connect and take the next step together! #Bronchiectasis #BronchiectasisCoach #NTMLungDisease #MACLungDisease #BeProactive #BeClearMethod https://www.letsbecleartoday.com/store/p2/Comprehensive_75_minute_consultation.html?#/  This year we anticipate having the first-ever FDA-approved treatment for bronchiectasis—brensocatib.
Many have asked me about the criteria for brensocatib eligibility and it remains uncertain. The FDA will ultimately determine who can access it, whether by restricting it to high-risk populations or allowing clinicians more discretion in prescribing it. For the clinical trial, participants had to be classified as frequent exacerbators—those experiencing two or more exacerbations per year requiring antibiotics. But that was just the trial’s criteria. Going forward, clinicians will most probably ask for an open policy that will allow them to determine who might benefit most. After all, the mechanism of brensocatib in bronchiectasis is to reduce inflammation—and inflammation is at the core of this disease, regardless of exacerbation frequency. In fact, many of us experience significant symptoms even without frequent exacerbations. So it stands to reason that reducing symptoms would improve quality of life and be a major benefit to our community. Does this give you hope? Are you someone who likes to try new treatments right away, or do you prefer to wait, see how others respond, and then decide? www.letsbecleartoday.com #Bronchiectasis #brensocatib #clinicaltrials #AspenStudy #exacerbations #flareups #hopeisintheair |
AuthorLinda Cooper Esposito, MPH is a health educator with bronchiectasis. She developed the BE CLEAR Method to Living with Bronchiectasis and writes with compassion and humor about this chronic lung disease. Archives
March 2025
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