Meaning Mycobacterium avium complex, MAC lung disease results from bacterial exposure. Healthy individuals often avoid the effects of this illness, but certain medical conditions can increase a person’s risk. MAC lung disease can be treated with medications, as well as other therapies.
The bacteria associated with MAC lung disease can be found in water and soil. These bacteria can be inhaled or consumed, and typically don’t cause illness. However, risk factors like smoking, having a medical condition that affects the lungs, and having a compromised immune system can increase a person’s chance of experiencing symptoms like:
In addition to impacting the lungs, MAC can also cause swelling of the lymph nodes (often in children) and make its way to the bloodstream.
Doctors typically take a conservative approach to MAC lung disease that involves monitoring the condition. If symptoms worsen, airway clearance therapies come next. These therapies involve breathing treatments that remove mucus and bacteria from the lungs.
Doctors can also prescribe antibiotic medications if airway clearance is ineffective. Due to concerns about antibiotic resistance, doctors usually prescribe a combination of medications during the course of treatment. Drug regimens can last as long as 18 months in some cases. Antibiotics treatment can also be combined with surgery when there’s permanent damage to lung tissue.
While the infection is ongoing, people with MAC lung disease are encouraged to properly manage the condition. A healthy diet and regular exercise schedule and avoiding smoking are beneficial. Many patients also experience relief by undergoing pulmonary rehab.