Mycobacterium avium complex or MAC is a group of bacteria that causes chronic infection primarily affecting one’s lungs. The condition is seen more commonly in people who already suffer from other lung problems, like bronchiectasis and COPD. In severe cases, the disease may affect organs other than lungs, and people who have a compromised immune system are more at risk. There are a few early signs that should prompt one to seek medical diagnosis.

Types of MAC infections
MAC disease that affects the lungs and respiratory tract is called pulmonary MAC or MAC lung disease. Disseminated MAC, on the other hand, is a condition that affects patients in advanced stages of AIDS and impacts one’s entire body.

Early warning signs of MAC lung infection
The bacteria may be present in one’s body long before the symptoms begin to show. Early symptoms of MAC lung disease may vary from person to person and the early signs are often mild. Here are seven warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.

• Chronic cough and shortness of breath
  MAC bacteria can settle in the lung airways and irritate the delicate tissues, even creating a hold in them if left untreated. As a result, one may experience persistent or chronic cough. Moreover, one may cough up blood or mucus and even experience shortness of breath. Coughing can also be associated with other health issues like general flu, infection, or allergies, but one is advised to get the symptoms checked professionally, especially if one already has an existing lung condition or autoimmune disease.
• Chest pain and wheezing
  Another early sign of MAC lung disease can be chest pain and wheezing that isn’t associated with any recent physical activity or heart problems. These symptoms can be a result of chronic cough as well.
• Fatigue
  People with MAC lung disease may feel unnaturally tired even with enough rest and no particular lifestyle changes. MAC infection also tends to damage one’ breathing tubes, making it difficult to eliminate mucus. If one feels fatigued even after doing simple daily tasks, it’s best to consult a doctor.
• Low-grade fever
  One of the first subtle indications of a MAC infection can be the presence of a low-grade fever, characterized by a mild increase in body temperature. Low-grade fevers are the attempts of one’s immune system fighting the bacterial infection that has infiltrated the immune system. The MAC fever may recur or persist for an extended period, and it may also be attributed to other causes. However, when accompanied by other MAC-related symptoms, it should not be ignored.
• Night sweats
  Night sweats, another potential early sign of MAC lung disease, refer to excessive sweating during sleep, soaking through clothing and bedding. While occasional night sweats can occur for various reasons, their persistence and association with other concerning symptoms may suggest an underlying health issue, such as a MAC infection.
• Reduced appetite
  The infection might make one feel less hungry. Those with MAC infection may also have a low red blood cell (RBC) count. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider promptly if one’s appetite is consistently low for no obvious reasons, as it may indicate the progression of the infection or the need for adjustments in treatment strategies. This will also ensure one fulfills the nutritional requirements of one’s body to support the immune function.
• Skin infections
  Another early sign of MAC germs taking root in one’s body is the emergence of skin infections like sores on feet, ulcers, or painful lesions.

Since many of these signs are also associated with other health conditions, it is essential to seek medical evaluation if one experiences any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis is imperative in treating and managing MAC infections.