Pneumonia comes in different forms. Atypical pneumonia, also known as walking pneumonia, is a less severe form of pneumonia with milder symptoms, and in most cases does not require hospitalization or extensive bed rest. However, while the symptoms of walking pneumonia may seem more like a mild cold than pneumonia, doctors still advise patients to stay at home and get plenty of rest.
Walking Pneumonia – What To Know
- What are the causes?
- Pneumonia is an infection of the lung and is caused by certain kinds of bacteria including Legionella pneumophila, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae
- Pneumonia often occurs after a person has had the flu
- Patients with weakened immune systems can be more susceptible to pneumonia
- What are the Symptoms?
Fever- Cough
- Chills
- Chest pain
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- How can I treat it?
- Rest
- Hydration
- Antibiotics such as Azithromycin, Clarithromycin and Erythromycin
- How can I prevent it?
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid smoking
- Take vitamin C
- Get a flu shot every year
- Eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise
- Talk to your doctor about getting a pneumonia vaccine
- Who is at risk?
- Between 5 and 10 million people get pneumonia in the United States each year, and it affects people of all ages and backgrounds.
- People over the age of 65, young children, pregnant women and patients with weakened immune systems are at a greater risk for developing pneumonia of all types, including walking pneumonia.
- What are the complications associated with pneumonia?
- Bacteremia (bacteria in the blood).
- Respiratory failure
- Lung abscess
- Pleural effusion
- Difficulty breathing
- What will my healthcare provider look for when examining me?
- Enlarged lymph glands
- Elevated white blood cell count
- Crackling sounds when you breath
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