Mycoplasma pneumonia is one of the bacterial pneumonia. This is caused by “mycoplasma pneumoniae”. Earlier, this bacteria strain with small genomic content was thought to be virus. In 1960’s mycoplasma pneumoniae was confirmed as bacteria, but not a virus. Most people infected with this condition are below 40 years of age. According to statistics, M. Pneumoniae is atypical pneumonia that affects 15 – 50 % of pneumonia throughout the world.
Symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia can be mild to severe, based on the overall health of a person. There are no certain causes for the spread of the disease. Nevertheless, people working in crowded areas and unhygienic conditions are at higher risks. In United States of America, this illness is included in frequently affecting community acquired pneumonia.
Symptoms of Mycoplasma Pneumonia
Unlike other bacteria, mycoplasma pneumoniae lacks cell wall and only possesses selective resemblance to the epithelial cells lining the respiratory system. Generally, this leads to infect both the lower and upper respiratory tracts, which results in prolonged paroxysmal cough. This bacteria has a feature of producing hydrogen peroxide, that damages the cells.
Mycoplasma pneumonia symptoms are not severe or life- threatening. Most people affected with pneumonia do not develop actual symptoms of pneumonia. Only, 5 – 10 % of infected people show severe pneumonia symptoms. Symptoms that suggest atypical pneumonia includes enlargement of lymph nodes and ear drum inflammation. Following are the symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia:
Common symptoms include:
- Chills
- Increased weakness
- Chest discomfort
- Dry cough
- Headache
- Excess perspiration
- Body pain
- Sore throat
- Running low to high fever
Rare symptoms include:
- Ear pain
- Skin rashes
- Muscle fatigue
- Chest congestion
- Eye soreness
- Breathing discomfort
- Joint stiffness
These symptoms are noticed within 2 – 3 weeks of exposure to casual bacteria. If persistent fever lasts for a couple of days, seek immediate medical attention for timely treatment and diagnosis.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Mycoplasma Pneumonia
This condition tends to be epidemic after 4 – 8 years, especially during summer season. Mycoplasma pneumonia is diagnosed by examining the lungs with stethoscope. Health care provider conducts X-ray test of lungs. If the doctor suspects the infection without apparent signs and diagnostic results, blood test is done for confirming the antibodies presence.
People having an underlying respiratory condition must be cautious, as this condition leads to difficulty in breathing. In such cases, medical attention in required to combat the breathing problems. People without pneumonia signs can recover within a couple of weeks. It takes several months to recover for those with pneumonia symptoms. In mild cases, medications are effective to treat fever and pain. Additionally, antibiotics are necessary for treating pneumonia symptoms.
