Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. People of all ages can get this kind of pneumonia, but it usually affects people younger than 40, most often those who are 5 to 20 years old. Some people may not be sick enough to stay in bed or go to the health care provider, and they may never even know that they had pneumonia. It’s often called “walking pneumonia”. These infections occur throughout the year but are seen slightly more often during winter.
Infection occurs after breathing in airborne droplets that someone who is infected coughs into the air. These droplets are contaminated with the kind of bacteria named Mycoplasma pneumoniae, the cause of this pneumonia. Mycoplasma infections often spread quickly when people live or work in close quarters, such as within families or schools.
Symptoms are mild and usually start 2 to 3 weeks after exposure to the bacteria. A dry, persistent cough is the most common symptom. Fever, headaches, chills, sweating, chest pain, and sore throat also occur. Exposure to Mycoplasma may also cause ear and throat infections.
The health care provider will make a diagnosis from the medical history and physical examination. The health care provider will order tests to find out how severe the pneumonia is. These tests include chest x-rays and possibly blood and sputum tests. People who are in the emergency department of a hospital will have their blood oxygen level measured.
Oral antibiotics are given, usually for 5 to 14 days, to treat the infection. Improvement usually begins within 1 or 2 days of starting antibiotics, but the cough may last for weeks. Nasal sprays and oral decongestants are often used for nasal symptoms. Rest, a well balanced diet, and drinking enough fluids are important for recovery.
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Copyright © 2016 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier, Inc.
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