Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease is a rare and serious condition that affects the lungs. MAC is a group of bacteria that may cause infections in people with a weak immune system, such as those with underlying lung conditions. However, it could also affect otherwise healthy individuals. Recognizing the warning signs of MAC lung disease is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. Here are 14 common warning signs associated with this condition.

Persistent cough
A persistent cough is often one of the first signs of MAC lung disease. It may start as a dry cough but could become chronic over time, with the production of mucus or sputum.

Shortness of breath
Breathing difficulty or shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, is a warning sign of MAC lung disease. One may experience this symptom often due to the damage caused to the lung tissue.

Fatigue
Many individuals with MAC lung disease experience extreme fatigue, which may interfere with their daily activities and quality of life.

Fever
Fever is a common symptom of MAC lung disease, which is a signal that the body is battling infection. Low-grade fever or intermittent temperature spikes often accompany other respiratory symptoms.

Night sweats
Profuse sweating at night is a common warning sign of MAC lung disease. Night sweats could disrupt sleep and contribute to overall fatigue.

Chest pain
Chest pain is another common warning sign of MAC lung disease. It often results from lung tissue damage caused by the infection. Anyone experiencing chest pain along with other respiratory symptoms should promptly seek medical evaluation to address the condition and its potential complications.

Clubbing of fingers
Clubbing of the fingers occurs when the fingertips are enlarged, and the nails curve around the fingertips. This might be a sign of chronic lung disease, including MAC.

Chronic bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis involves inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, leading to excessive mucus production and a persistent cough. This symptom may indicate MAC lung disease.

General malaise
A sense of overall discomfort or unease, often referred to as malaise, may accompany MAC lung disease. It may include symptoms such as body aches and chills.

Wheezing
It is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when breathing and could indicate airway constriction and inflammation, which are common signs of MAC lung disease.

Hemoptysis
Coughing up blood or hemoptysis is a severe symptom that should not be ignored. It may result from the damage to lung tissue caused by MAC.

Swollen lymph nodes
If one notices enlarged, swollen lymph nodes in the neck or under the arms, it may be a sign that the body is fighting an infection, including MAC lung disease.

Difficulty swallowing
In some cases, MAC lung disease could affect the esophagus, leading to difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia.

Joint pain
Joint pain and inflammation might occur due to MAC infection, particularly in individuals with underlying conditions that weaken the immune system.