Mycoplasma Pneumonia: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Shahid Patel , Pulmonologist

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Mycoplasma pneumonia, often called "walking pneumonia", is a milder form of bacterial respiratory infection caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. This bacterium is unique because it lacks a cell wall, making it resistant to some common antibiotics.

The condition is usually less severe than typical pneumonia and is most commonly seen in children and young adults, though it can affect people of all ages. The term "walking pneumonia" refers to the fact that many patients are well enough to continue daily activities despite their symptoms.

What Are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Mycoplasma Pneumonia?

Mycoplasma pneumonia is a contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria and spreads easily through close contact. Understanding its causes and risk factors can help in early prevention and care.

Causes

• Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria
• Spread through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person
• More common in crowded places like schools, hostels, and offices

Risk Factors

• Children, teenagers, and young adults
• Living in closed or shared spaces
• Weak immune system
• Chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes

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What are the Symptoms of Mycoplasma Pneumonia?

Initial Symptoms

The symptoms of Mycoplasma pneumonia usually develop gradually over one to three weeks. Initial symptoms often resemble those of a common cold and may include:

• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Low-grade fever

Progressive Symptoms

As the infection progresses, more specific symptoms of pneumonia may appear, such as:

• Persistent cough, often dry, but can become productive
• Chest pain, particularly when breathing deeply or coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Increased fatigue
• Muscle aches

Severe Symptoms

In severe cases, individuals may experience:

• High fever
• Rapid breathing
• Wheezing
• Cyanosis (bluish tint to the skin due to lack of oxygen)

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How is Mycoplasma Pneumonia Diagnosed?

Clinical Examination

A healthcare provider will typically start with a detailed medical history and a physical examination. They will listen to the lungs for abnormal sounds such as crackles or wheezing, which can indicate pneumonia.

Laboratory Tests

To confirm the diagnosis, several laboratory tests may be ordered, including:

• Blood tests: To check for signs of infection.
• Sputum culture: To identify the presence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in the mucus.
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests: To detect the genetic material of Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Imaging

A chest X-ray is often used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the infection. Unlike typical bacterial pneumonia, Mycoplasma pneumonia may not show a localized area of infection but rather a more diffuse pattern.

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What are the Treatment options for Mycoplasma Pneumonia?

Antibiotics

The primary treatment for Mycoplasma pneumonia involves antibiotics. Since Mycoplasma pneumoniae lacks a cell wall, antibiotics that target cell wall synthesis, such as penicillins, are ineffective. Instead, the following classes of antibiotics are commonly used:

• Macrolides: Such as azithromycin and erythromycin.
• Tetracyclines: Such as doxycycline.
• Fluoroquinolones: Such as levofloxacin.

Symptomatic Treatment

In addition to antibiotics, symptomatic treatment is often necessary to alleviate discomfort. This may include:

• Fever reducers: Such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Cough suppressants: To manage a persistent cough.
• Hydration: To help thin mucus and ease breathing

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When to See a Doctor for Mycoplasma Pneumonia?

If your cough, fever, or tiredness doesn't improve in a few days, it's best to get checked by a doctor. Early treatment helps avoid serious health issues.

You Should Visit a Doctor If

• Fever continues for more than 3 days
• Cough lasts beyond a week
• You feel breathless or have chest pain
• You're feeling very weak or tired all the time

Who Should Be Extra Careful

• Children and elderly people
• Those with asthma, diabetes, or weak immunity
• People with lung or heart problems

At Medicover, our experienced doctors are well-equipped to manage such infections with timely care and personal attention, helping you get back to good health quickly.

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What Is the Recovery Process After Mycoplasma Pneumonia Treatment?

Recovery from Mycoplasma pneumonia is usually smooth, though symptoms like cough may take a few weeks to fully go away. Most patients improve within 1& 2 weeks of starting antibiotics.

Follow-Up

• Doctor visit in 1&2 weeks if symptoms continue
• Further tests only if recovery is slow

Lifestyle &Diet Tips

• Stay well-hydrated
• Take proper rest
• Eat light, healthy meals
• Avoid smoking or pollution exposure

Outlook

Most patients recover fully without complications. Medicover offers complete follow-up care and recovery support through our expert team.

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What Precautions Can Help Prevent Mycoplasma Pneumonia?

Hygiene Practices

Good hygiene practices are essential in preventing the spread of Mycoplasma pneumonia. These include:

• Frequent hand washing with soap and water.
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

Vaccination

Currently, there is no vaccine available specifically for Mycoplasma pneumonia. However, vaccines for other respiratory infections, such as influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia, can help reduce the overall risk of respiratory illnesses.

Environmental Controls

In environments prone to outbreaks, such as schools and dormitories, measures such as improving ventilation and reducing overcrowding can help prevent the spread of Mycoplasma pneumonia.

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Complications of Mycoplasma Pneumonia

While Mycoplasma pneumonia is generally mild, it can lead to severe complications, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Potential complications include:

• Respiratory failure: Severe cases can lead to difficulty breathing and require mechanical ventilation.
• Pleural effusion: Accumulation of fluid around the lungs.
• Hemolytic anemia: A condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be produced.
• Neurological complications, Such as encephalitis or Guillain-Barr& syndrome.
• Cardiac complications Including myocarditis and pericarditis.

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Our Experience Treating Mycoplasma Pneumonia

At Medicover, our expert doctors have treated many cases of Mycoplasma pneumonia with great care and success. From accurate diagnosis to the right antibiotic treatment, we make sure every patient gets personalised attention.

Our team also guides patients with follow-up care, diet tips, and recovery support, helping them get back to normal life faster and healthier.

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