10 Symptoms of Legionnaire’s Disease

Legionnaires’ disease is an infection of the lungs, caused by the Legionella bacteria. Most often, Legionnaires’ disease is caused by breathing contaminated droplets of water, which is the result of inadequate water systems. The disease is treated easily with antibiotics, provided that treatment is initiated as early as possible. Legionnaires’ disease is serious and requires medical attention; if you suspect having any symptoms, do not hesitate to contact our doctor. Learn more about the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease.

High Fever

One of the principal symptoms of Legionnaire’s disease is a fever. Fever occurs as a result of your body increasing its internal temperature to kill invading bacteria or infections. This symptom isn’t usually serious unless it reaches a high temperature of 102 Fahrenheit or more. For Legionnaires’ disease, the incubation period from the point of infection until the appearance of symptoms is usually around 2 to 10 days, but in rare cases can take up to two weeks. To treat a fever, drink plenty of water and carefully monitor the temperature. Contact your doctor if you develop a high fever or a fever that doesn’t go away.

Chills

Chills are related to fever and are a feeling of coldness and shivering which often indicate that body temperature is changing. When your body increases in temperature, you may feel cold. Muscle contraction causes chills. It may help to bundle up in lots of blankets, and warm water may help you to feel better. Two different types of illness can occur as a result of the Legionella bacteria. One is Legionnaires’ disease, and the other is Pontiac fever. If you notice any symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible to initiate treatment.

A Cough

In addition to chills and fever, you may notice a cough as a result of your infection. This cough is because Legionnaires’ disease mostly causes trouble for the lungs. A cough may be dry, but it can also be wet, meaning that phlegm is produced. Depending on the severity of the cough, medical attention may be necessary. In any case, contact your doctor right away if you notice any symptoms. If you frequent public places such as hospitals or offices, you may have a larger risk of becoming infected by Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks.

Difficulty Breathing

Legionnaires’ disease mostly affects the lungs, which happens to be the most significant part of the body. You can experience a wide range of symptoms related to the lungs: chest pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing. The latter is often the most troubling symptom and often required medical attention. If you are an older adult, you have a higher chance of becoming infected. If you notice any symptoms, contact your doctor right away; it is important to start treatment as soon as possible to improve your prognosis. If left untreated, Legionnaires’ disease may cause severe complications.

A Headache

There are many ways of becoming infected by Legionella. One of the most common means of becoming infected is by inhaling water drops contaminated with bacteria. This contamination often takes place in areas such as hospitals, hotels, or other large buildings. Infection does not occur by drinking water. Symptoms usually appear a few days after infection. One of the first signs to look out for is a headache, which is often mild at the beginning stages. Afterward, it may become more severe. Luckily, the prognosis is good for people who receive early treatment. If left untreated, Legionnaires’ disease can prove fatal.

Soreness

If you develop Legionnaires’ disease, one of the main symptoms you may experience is a soreness, especially in the muscles. Pain or discomfort is most often felt in the joints. Often, a mild headache accompanies muscle pain; this is usually one of the first symptoms to appear. Later, a more aggressive sign may develop, including a high fever. At this stage, muscle pain tends to get worse. To reduce muscle pain, try adding a warm compress over the affected area, and ask your doctor if you may take over-the-counter pain medication.

Chest Pain

Chest pain is a common symptom of Legionnaires’ disease. While not all patients experience this symptom, it is frequent in more complicated cases. Chest pain is discomfort in the chest area, near the lungs, and extending all the way to the rib cage. If left untreated, Legionnaires’ disease may cause life-threatening complications, such as respiratory failure or kidney failure. For this reason, it is vital to seek medical attention if you notice any of the symptoms described. When it comes to treating chest pain, it is crucial to tackle the virus and eliminate it from the body.

Fatigue

Fatigue is the feeling of extreme tiredness and sleepiness that occurs when your body is fighting an infection and uses more energy than usual. Therefore, you feel tired as a result; however, fatigue may or may not go away with rest, and it can persist throughout the infection. If you experience fatigue, it is important to rest so your body can effectively fight the infection. Talk to your doctor about possible treatment options, and how to combat fatigue. If you belong to a risk group, you have a higher right for developing Legionnaires’ disease. Such groups include people over the age of 50, as well as those who have a weak immune system.

Nausea

You may experience nausea if you have Legionnaires’ disease. Nausea is related to vomiting and is the feeling that you need to vomit. Harmful bacteria in your stomach can cause nausea. As their presence alters your brain, you feel sick, and sometimes dizzy. The result is often vomiting, which occurs as a reaction by your body to rid itself of any harmful bacteria. If you’re feeling nauseous, lay down and practice deep breathing. This technique will help calm you down and reduce nausea. Sip water and contact your doctor if symptoms persist.

Diarrhea

Some people who become infected with Legionnaires’ disease will also demonstrate symptoms that affect the stomach. That’s why in some cases, you may experience diarrhea. The effects of the disease can be harmful to the stomach, and the bacteria can cause a reaction by which your stomach tries to eliminate any bacteria from its interior. The result is diarrhea, which may range from mild to severe. It is essential to stay hydrated because diarrhea often leads to dehydration; also, avoid solid foods if you experience diarrhea, and aim to eat bland liquids such as water, soup, or smoothies.