Walking Pneumonia: Care Instructions

Overview

Walking pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that's often caused by the mycoplasma bacteria.

Cold-like symptoms of cough, sore throat, headache, feeling tired, and a low fever start slowly. The infection is usually so mild that you may walk around with it without knowing that you have it. Most people don't get sick enough to be in the hospital.

Walking pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics.

Your cough may last for 2 to 3 weeks after the infection has been treated. You may have some wheezing too. These symptoms will go away over time.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Get enough rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Practice good oral care to limit the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
• Take care of your cough so you can rest. A cough that brings up mucus from your lungs is common with pneumonia. It's one way your body gets rid of the infection. But if coughing keeps you from resting, makes you feel exhausted, or causes chest-wall pain, talk to your doctor. They may suggest that you take medicine to reduce the cough.
• Do not smoke or vape, and avoid other’s smoke. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You have severe trouble breathing.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or worse trouble breathing, such as wheezing.
• You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
• You have a new or higher fever.
• You cough up dark brown or bloody mucus (sputum).

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your cough has not gone away after 2 to 4 weeks.
• You are not getting better as expected.