Walking pneumonia, also known as atypical pneumonia, is a milder form of the lung infection caused by bacteria called Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The term “walking” is used to describe the condition because it is less severe than traditional pneumonia, and individuals are often able to continue with their normal daily activities while they have it.
Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia
Symptoms of walking pneumonia can include:
Cough, which may be dry or produce mucus
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Headache
Sore throat
Fever
Chills
Chest pain
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Body aches
The symptoms of walking pneumonia can be similar to those of a cold or the flu, which can make it difficult to diagnose. However, it is important to see a doctor if you suspect you may have the condition, as it can lead to more serious complications if left untreated.
Diagnosis of walking pneumonia is typically made through a physical examination, chest x-ray, and laboratory tests such as blood cultures, sputum cultures and PCR.
Treatment of Walking Pneumonia
Treatment for walking pneumonia typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics for this condition include macrolides, such as azithromycin and clarithromycin, and tetracyclines, such as doxycycline.
It is important to take the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better. Failure to do so can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can make it more difficult to treat the infection in the future.
In addition to antibiotics, there are a number of other things you can do to help alleviate the symptoms of walking pneumonia and speed your recovery:
Rest as much as possible
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
Use a humidifier to keep the air in your home moist
Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help reduce fever and relieve body aches
Avoid smoking, as it can irritate your lungs and make it more difficult for your body to heal
It’s important to note that if you have a weakened immune system or underlying health condition, you may be at greater risk of developing complications from walking pneumonia. If you are experiencing severe symptoms or have difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
In conclusion, walking pneumonia is a milder form of pneumonia caused by the bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae. It can be difficult to diagnose due to its similar symptoms to cold and flu, but it is important to see a doctor if you suspect you may have the condition. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, rest and fluids. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics prescribed, even if you start feeling better and to take other measures to alleviate the symptoms and speed recovery.