Walking pneumonia is a mild form of pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae or a virus, with symptoms including cough, fever, and stomach pains. Most cases resolve on their own, but antibiotics may be prescribed for prolonged or severe cases. It can be contagious and worsen lung conditions, but prevention measures such as hand washing and healthy eating can help.
Walking pneumonia or atypical pneumonia is a mild form of pneumonia characterized by a relatively good state of health on the part of the patient. In fact, most cases resolve on their own if left untreated, and doctors sometimes allow it to do so. Treatments are available for prolonged cases or cases that could become more severe without treatment, such as infections in people with compromised immune systems.
The most common cause of walking pneumonia is a bacterium known as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, although this condition can also be viral in origin. The condition is caused by inflammation of the lungs which causes the victim to have a strong cough, often associated with fever, stomach pains and sometimes chills or pains. It typically takes one to three weeks from the onset of infection for walking pneumonia to emerge.
When someone has a case of walking pneumonia, they usually feel well enough to walk around, feeling generally run down. Many people are not even aware that they have pneumonia, as their immune system successfully fights the bacteria on its own. However, people are still contagious, so they can pass the bacteria on to others.
Walking pneumonia can become a problem in someone with asthma or other lung conditions, as the inflammation can exacerbate breathing and lung problems. In these individuals, treatment is strongly recommended and antibiotics are typically prescribed to kill the bacteria, along with bronchiodilators to keep the bronchial tubes clear, ensuring the patient does not struggle to breathe. Antibiotics can also be given to patients with persistent cases of walking pneumonia.
Some doctors believe that this infection should run its course, as overuse of antibiotics can be dangerous. Patients are generally encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, eat well, and exercise if possible to stimulate and support the immune system. They may also be advised to stay away from people with compromised immune systems.
Some measures can be used to prevent a case of walking pneumonia, such as washing hands, making sure people cover their mouths while coughing, and eating right to keep the body healthy. These measures will also go a long way in preventing other sources of bacterial and viral infection.
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