What is the most common cause of atypical pneumonia?
Even though these infections are called “atypical,” they are not uncommon. This illness, caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae, is most common in school-aged children and usually develops into mild pneumonia or bronchitis…
What are the symptoms of atypical pneumonia?
What Are the Symptoms of Atypical Pneumonia? Chills, cough, fever, and shortness of breath are common symptoms in atypical pneumonia. The symptoms are usually mild and although they will gradually improve, it may take more than a month for them to go completely away.
What is the difference between typical pneumonia and atypical pneumonia?
With atypical pneumonia, the infection is caused by different bacteria than the more common ones that cause pneumonia. Atypical pneumonia also tends to have milder symptoms than typical pneumonia. The major features of the lungs include the bronchi, the bronchioles and the alveoli.
How long does it take to recover from atypical pneumonia?
It can take about six weeks to fully recover from walking pneumonia. However, most people recover from pneumonia in about a week. Bacterial pneumonia usually starts to improve shortly after starting antibiotics, while viral pneumonia usually starts to improve after about three days.
What is the best treatment for atypical pneumonia?
Macrolide antibiotics: Macrolide drugs are the preferred treatment for children and adults. Macrolides include azithromycin (Zithromax®) and clarithromycin (Biaxin®).
How long does it take to get rid of atypical pneumonia?
6 weeks – cough and breathlessness should have substantially reduced. 3 months – most symptoms should have resolved, but you may still feel very tired (fatigue) 6 months – most people will feel back to normal.
How do you test for atypical pneumonia?
He or she will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope to check for abnormal breath sounds. Your doctor may order chest X-rays to see if there is an infection in your lungs. Your blood or mucus might be tested to determine if your pneumonia is caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, another bacteria, virus or fungus.
Is atypical pneumonia contagious?
Yes, walking pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae is contagious (spread through person-to-person contact). When an infected person coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the bacteria become airborne and can be inhaled by others who are nearby.
How long does pneumonia last in child?
However, for most children the symptoms of pneumonia will last for about 2-4 weeks. If the symptoms aren’t improving or the cough lasts longer than 4 weeks, you should consult your doctor.