Clearing a MAC Infection: My Personal Journey

After several years, I finally cleared a Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection. It was a long journey that required patience, consistency, and a deep commitment to my health.

What Is Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC)?

MAC is a type of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung infection. It often occurs in people with bronchiectasis. Bronchiectasis (BE) can cause mucus to build up in the airways, creating an environment where bacteria are more likely to grow and persist.

However, it is not always clear which came first. Did the bronchiectasis create the conditions for the infection, or did the infection contribute to airway damage and cause the BE? In some cases, it truly can be a “chicken or the egg” situation.

Symptoms Can Vary Widely

People experience MAC very differently. Some individuals struggle with symptoms such as night sweats, debilitating fatigue, chronic cough, and daily sputum production. Others may have very few symptoms and feel relatively well even while the infection is present. Because symptoms and disease severity can vary widely, treatment decisions are often individualized and difficult to make.

When Antibiotics Are Recommended for MAC

When my infection was first diagnosed, my doctor recommended antibiotic therapy. Standard treatment for MAC often involves several antibiotics taken for a long time — often over a year.

Choosing a Different Initial Approach

In my case, after careful discussion with my physician, I initially chose a different approach. As an experienced health coach, I decided to focus on myself as my only client and see whether I could clear the infection without starting antibiotics right away.
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I committed to what I called building a brick house. Rather than relying on one single intervention, I focused on laying one brick at a time through consistent airway clearance, regular exercise and movement, and healthy lifestyle practices, including stress management and reflux control.

At the same time, I continued to monitor my condition closely with my medical team and understood that antibiotics remained an option if my condition worsened.

A Long but Meaningful Journey

It was not a quick or easy process. But after several years, my cultures finally cleared.

My experience is not meant to suggest that everyone can or should follow the same path. Many people with MAC absolutely require antibiotic treatment, particularly those with cavitary disease or who are very symptomatic. This decision should always be made with a physician who is well-trained in bronchiectasis and Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria lung diseases, such as MAC. ​

But my journey is a reminder that there can sometimes be more than one path forward. Steady, consistent care of our lungs and overall health can make a meaningful difference over time.
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For me, the process of building that brick house, one daily habit at a time, became the foundation for protecting my lungs and supporting my long-term health.

*Common Questions About MAC Lung Disease*

How long does it take to clear a MAC infection?

MAC infections can take a long time to treat or resolve. When antibiotics are used, treatment often lasts at least 12 months after cultures become negative. If cultures are not converting by six months, the protocol is often changed to daily medication rather than three times a week, and an inhaled antibiotic might be added.  

Do all people with MAC infection need antibiotics?

Not always. Some people with mild symptoms and no cavitary disease may opt for "watchful waiting" and be monitored closely before starting treatment. Others, particularly those with more severe disease or significant symptoms, may benefit from antibiotic therapy. Decisions about treatment should always be made with a pulmologist and/or infectious disease doctor who specializes in bronchiectasis and MAC lung disease.

Can lifestyle habits help support lung health with MAC or bronchiectasis?

Absolutely! While lifestyle practices are not a cure for bronchiectasis and chronic lung infections, consistent habits such as airway clearance, exercise, stress reduction, reflux management, and good sleep can play an important role in supporting lung health and overall well-being. 

My story and the practices I used to build a stronger and more resilient body are discussed in my book, The BE CLEAR Method to Living with Bronchectasis, available on Amazon.

​This post is for educational purposes only. It reflects my personal experience and should not be considered medical advice. Never change your treatment plan without discussing it with your medical team.