Because it often causes mild symptoms that do not interfere with daily activities, mycoplasma pneumonia is also called walking pneumonia or atypical pneumonia. It affects the lungs and respiratory tract. By practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected people, you can prevent mycoplasma pneumonia in children and young adults, especially in crowded settings like schools, colleges, or nursing homes.
Among the smallest and simplest bacteria that can infect humans, Mycoplasma pneumoniae causes mycoplasma pneumonia. As a result of respiratory droplets, saliva, or contact with contaminated objects, the bacterium spreads from person to person. The incubation period for mycoplasma pneumonia is usually 16 to 18 days, but can range from 12 to 25 days. The most contagious period for mycoplasma pneumonia patients is two to five days prior to the onset of symptoms.
Mycoplasma pneumonia symptoms vary depending on the severity of the infection, but they usually include:
Fever
Dry cough
The throat is sore
Having a headache
Tiredness
Pain in the muscles
Pain in the chest
Breathing difficulties
Some people with mycoplasma pneumonia have no symptoms at all, or only mild symptoms such as a cold or a chest infection. Others may develop more serious complications, such as:
Infections of the ears
Having a sinus infection
Acute bronchitis
Infection with pneumonia
Exacerbations of asthma
Rashes on the skin
Inflammation of the joints
Problems with the heart
Disorders of the nervous system
Symptoms, medical history, and laboratory tests are used to diagnose mycoplasma pneumonia. If the patient exhibits signs of lung infection, such as crackles, wheezes, and reduced breath sounds, the doctor will examine them. Additionally, the doctor will ask about the onset, duration, and severity of the symptoms, as well as possible exposure to infected individuals.
Mycoplasma pneumonia can be diagnosed with the following laboratory tests:
A blood test will detect antibodies against Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which indicates an infection that has occurred or may have occurred. As the antibodies may take several weeks to form, or may persist for a long time after the infection is gone, these tests may not be accurate or reliable.
A sputum test is used to collect and analyze mucus from the lungs, which may contain Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria. However, these tests may not be available or feasible, since the bacteria are difficult to grow and isolate.
These tests are more sensitive and specific than the other tests, but may not be widely accessible or affordable. They detect the genetic material of the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria in blood, sputum, or throat swabs.
Antibiotics can kill Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria and shorten the duration of symptoms. Some antibiotics that are effective against Mycoplasma pneumoniae include:
The macrolides azithromycin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin
Doxycycline and tetracyclines are tetracyclines
Levofloxacin and moxifloxacin are fluoroquinolones
Depending on the patient’s age, weight, medical condition, and allergy history, the doctor will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic, dose, and duration. The patient should take the antibiotic as directed, and complete the full course, even if the symptoms improve or disappear. Stopping the antibiotic too soon may lead to relapse, resistance, or complications.
Mycoplasma pneumonia may also be treated with:
Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or cough suppressants may be used to reduce fever, pain, or cough. The patient should, however, avoid aspirin, especially in children, since it may cause a rare but serious condition called Reye's syndrome in children.
A patient should drink plenty of water, juice, or broth to avoid dehydration, and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which may worsen symptoms or interact with antibiotics.
Getting enough sleep and avoiding strenuous activity will help the body heal and recover.
A humidifier or vaporizer can moisten the air and ease breathing, or the patient can inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or a shower to ease breathing.
Quitting smoking or avoiding secondhand smoke will prevent further damage to the lungs and respiratory tract.
Practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with people who are infected to prevent Mycoplasma pneumonia.
Frequently and thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
When coughing or sneezing, cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or a sleeve, and dispose of the tissue properly
Sharing utensils, cups, or other items that may contain saliva or respiratory secretions
Surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with bacteria should be cleaned and disinfected
When in crowded or poorly ventilated places, or when in contact with sick people, wear a mask or face covering
Isolating yourself from others when sick, until the symptoms subside or the doctor says it's safe to return to normal activities
You may reduce the risk of complications or co-infections by getting vaccinated against other types of pneumonia, such as pneumococcal or influenza
When signs or symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia appear, seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially in children, older adults, or people with chronic diseases or weakened immune systems.
