Mycoplasma pneumonia is a specific type of atypical pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumonia is a bacterial infection in the respiratory tract and in this case, it is caused by the bacteria called mycoplasma pneumoniae. This is a “Community Acquired Pneumonia” which means it is usually caught by being in public and exposed to others who have the pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumonia is considered to be a somewhat mild infection, but the symptoms can linger if the pneumonia is not treated correctly and quickly.
Pneumonia that is an inflammation in the lungs caused by the bacteria mycoplasma pneumoniae is sometimes referred to as “walking pneumonia”. Since the condition is fairly mild, many people go about their daily business, not realizing they are actually sick. That is the reason it is called walking pneumonia. This form of pneumonia doesn’t usually confine sufferers to bed, but it can be annoying and severe because it can last a long time.
Mycoplasma pneumonia can be very contagious. Sneezing, coughing, and even laughing and talking can cause the bacteria to become airborne. However, exposure to the bacteria does not necessarily mean you will develop the lung infection.
Mycoplasma pneumonia most often affects younger people, usually between the ages of 5 to 16. Two million people a year in the United State contract this form of pneumonia. The symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia can take as much as two weeks to manifest themselves after exposure to the bacteria and the symptoms resemble those of a common cold. For this reason, treatment is often delayed. Mycoplasma pneumonia generally starts with the sense that you have no energy and feeling extremely exhausted. Before this period, the disease does not show any significant symptoms. Eventually other symptoms will begin to manifest. The most common symptoms are fever and chills, sweating, difficulty breathing, sore throat, and sometimes headaches. A dry cough is a very common symptom. Occasionally, the pneumonia can even cause a rash.
Once you realize that something is wrong you should get to the doctor. A mild case is generally treated with antibiotics. If after completing the round of antibiotics prescribed, you are still experiencing the symptoms, the doctor may give you a stronger prescription or recommend hospitalization.
Tags: atypical pneumonia, community acquired pneumonia, mycoplasma, Mycoplasma Pneumonia, Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, Walking Pneumonia