What are the Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia?
October 11, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Walking pneumonia, medically known as atypical pneumonia or mycoplasma pneumonia, is a milder form of pneumonia that often doesn’t require hospitalization. The symptoms of walking pneumonia can resemble those of a common cold or flu, but they tend to be less severe. Common symptoms of walking pneumonia include:
- Persistent Cough:
- A dry or productive cough that can last for several weeks or longer.
- Sore Throat:
- A scratchy or irritated throat, which may be mild.
- Low-Grade Fever:
- A slight increase in body temperature, usually less than 100.4°F (38°C).
- Fatigue:
- General tiredness, lack of energy, or a feeling of weakness.
- Chest Discomfort:
- Mild chest discomfort, such as chest tightness or a vague feeling of pressure.
- Shortness of Breath:
- Mild difficulty breathing, particularly during physical activity or exertion.
- Headache:
- Mild headache, often resembling a tension headache.
- Muscle Aches and Joint Pain:
- Muscle aches or soreness, and occasionally joint pain.
- Chills:
- Occasional chills, especially if there is a fever.
- Nasal Congestion or Runny Nose:
- Mild nasal congestion or a runny nose, similar to symptoms of a common cold.
- Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms may occasionally occur but are less common.
- Mild or No Symptoms in Some Cases:
- In some cases, individuals with walking pneumonia may have very mild symptoms or be asymptomatic carriers.
The term “walking pneumonia” refers to the ability of individuals with this type of pneumonia to continue their daily activities and function relatively normally despite being sick. However, it’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have walking pneumonia or are experiencing persistent symptoms. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the cause is bacterial. Rest, plenty of fluids, and over-the-counter medications for symptom relief can also help manage walking pneumonia.