PNEUMONIA, MYCOPLASMA

(Atypical Pneumonia; Walking Pneumonia)

 Basic information

description

Mycoplasma pneumonia is a lung inflammation caused by infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, an organism (germ) that is similar to bacteria. The disorder is also called walking pneumonia, because a patient is usually not confined to bed or in need of hospital care. Some people may not even realize they have pneumonia, as the symptoms are often mild. It can affect all ages, but is more common in ages 5 to 20.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Cough that is dry. May have some sputum.
• Fever.
• Sore throat.
• Stuffy nose.
• Chest or ear pain may occur.
• Headache.
• Wheezing.
• Muscle aches and fatigue.

causes

Mycoplasma pneumonia is infectious and is spread through close contact with an infected person. Germs are spread into the air when the infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms may begin 15 to 25 days after being exposed to the germs.

risk increases with

• Close living conditions (military barracks, college dorms, and families).
• Weak immune system due to illness or drugs.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures. Avoid exposure to persons who are ill with respiratory infections. Wash hands often to prevent spread of any type of germs.

expected outcomes

Symptoms usually clear up in about two weeks. Some symptoms, such as cough or fatigue, may persist for 4 to 6 weeks. The disorder will heal on its own, but treatment with antibiotics can help speed recovery. Once a person has had the infection, there is some immunity, but it is not life-long.

possible complications

• Skin rash.
• Ear infection or sinus inflammation.
• Asthma.
• Hemolytic anemia (lack of red blood cells).
• Severe pneumonia.
• Other, less common complications may occur.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms. Medical tests may include blood studies, sputum culture, and chest x-rays.
• Treatment may include extra rest, treatment of symptoms, and antibiotics. For most patients, treatment can be done at home. Hospital care may be needed for someone with severe symptoms or complications.
• Use a heating pad on low heat or warm compresses to relieve chest pain.
• To learn more: American Lung Association, 61 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10006; (800) 586-4872; website: www.lungusa.org.

medications

• Antibiotics, such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, azithromycin, or tetracycline (for ages over 8), may be prescribed. They will shorten the duration of fever and other symptoms, but you can carry the germs for weeks in spite of treatment.
• Cough medicine, nose drops, sprays, or oral decongestants may be recommended.
• You may use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever or minor pain.

activity

Get extra rest until symptoms improve. Normal activities should be resumed gradually. Children may return to school once symptoms improve.

diet

No special diet. Extra fluid helps thin lung secretions so they can be coughed up more easily.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia.
• The following occur during treatment:
  • High fever, increased pain, or shortness of breath.
  • Dark or bluish fingernails, toenails, or skin.
  • Blood in the sputum, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
  • Rash or earache.
  • Severe headache.

Special Notes: