Lisa shared this account about her experiences between 2003 and 2011. It describes her personal history and treatment at that time, not current medical advice.
In November 2003, I had two ectopic pregnancies within a few weeks. After the second emergency operation, I left hospital with a severe chest infection and was given antibiotics.
By April 2004, tests had found bronchiectasis in both lungs. I was also diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. I reduced my working hours, hoping to manage my energy and stay well.
For the next six years, I was in and out of hospital, often taking time off work and having repeated courses of antibiotics. After a particularly difficult winter in 2010, I felt lonely and frustrated. My family were supportive, but I wanted to connect with people who understood what living with a lung condition was like. I found an online bronchiectasis group, where a member encouraged me to seek a specialist opinion.
I asked my GP for a referral. The specialist team arranged tests and, within a month, diagnosed a mannose-binding lectin deficiency and aspergillosis. I began taking azithromycin and itraconazole. After a couple of months, my treatment changed to Sporanox.
I felt a significant improvement in my energy and general wellbeing. My husband and I were able to make plans with more confidence. I decided to stop working so I could focus on enjoying the time and energy I had.
In October 2011, after clearing our loft, I developed severe pain and spent a week in hospital. When I wrote this account, I said I had been well since then.
My husband has been a wonderful support throughout.
Lisa M
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