Can’t you put aside your persistent cough and cold? It can cause a serious lung infection.
Seasonal allergies and pollutants cause various health problems. Do you have a cough and cold? Is it something that just won’t go away? There is a possibility that it is a sign of another lung disease. Walking pneumonia, medically known as atypical pneumonia, is a mild form of pneumonia that often does not require hospitalization. It is usually caused by bacteria such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae or viruses. Unlike traditional pneumonia, walking pneumonia tends to develop gradually and may not present with severe symptoms, allowing people to continue with their daily activities, hence the term “walking.”
Symptoms of walking pneumonia
The symptoms of walking pneumonia can be subtle and resemble those of the common cold or flu. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent cough: A dry cough that persists for weeks is one of the hallmark signs. The cough may worsen at night or during physical exertion.
- Fatigue: People often experience unusual tiredness or weakness, which can affect daily activities.
- Mild fever and chills: Mild fever (usually less than 102°F) may occur, often accompanied by chills.
- Chest pain: Some may experience mild chest discomfort, especially when coughing or breathing deeply.
- Difficulty breathing: While not as serious as traditional pneumonia, some people may find it a little more difficult to breathe during exertion.
- Headache and sore throat: General malaise, headaches and sore throat may also accompany the other symptoms.
These symptoms can last for weeks, so it is important to seek medical attention if they persist.
Precautions to prevent pneumonia when walking
Preventing walking pneumonia involves several key strategies, especially for those at highest risk, such as children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems:
- Good hygiene practices: Washing your hands regularly with soap and water, or using hand sanitizer, can help reduce the spread of germs. It is also advisable to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking damages lung tissue and weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of respiratory infections. Quitting smoking can significantly improve lung health.
- healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep can strengthen the immune system, making it more resistant to infections.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, so it is beneficial to incorporate stress reduction techniques, such as mindfulness or exercise.
Walking pneumonia, although usually mild, can still cause prolonged discomfort and symptoms if left untreated. If you experience symptoms that persist or worsen, seek medical attention to ensure proper care and recovery.
