Atypical pneumonia is a type of pneumonia that is caused by bacteria other than the typical bacteria that cause pneumonia. It’s a serious infection that can affect children of all ages, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications. Atypical pneumonia can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, and Legionella pneumophila.
Symptoms
- Coughing, which may produce mucus or phlegm
- Fever, which can be high or low-grade
- Chills
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Wheezing or coughing up blood (in severe cases)
Causes
- Bacterial infections, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, and Legionella pneumophila
- Viral infections, such as influenza or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
- Exposure to contaminated water or air
- Weakened immune system, such as in children with underlying medical conditions
Diagnosis
- Review Medical History: Our doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms, medical history, and overall health to understand their condition.
- Conduct Physical Exam: Our doctor will perform a physical exam to check your child’s vital signs, listen to their lungs, and look for any signs of infection.
- Run Blood Tests: We will take a blood sample to check for the presence of bacteria or viruses that may be causing the infection.
- Analyze Sputum: We will analyze the mucus or phlegm coughed up by your child to check for any signs of infection.
- Take a Chest X-ray: We will take a picture of your child’s chest to look for any fluid or abnormalities in the lungs.
- Perform a CT Scan: We will use a special type of X-ray to take detailed images of your child’s chest and lungs.
Treatment Options
- Prescribe Antibiotics: Our doctor will prescribe antibiotics to target the underlying bacterial infection and help your child’s body fight off the infection.
- Administer Oxygen Therapy: We will provide oxygen therapy to help increase oxygen levels in the blood and support your child’s breathing.
- Provide Pain Management: Our team will work with you to develop a pain management plan to alleviate chest pain or discomfort and make your child more comfortable.
- Monitor Fluid Intake: We will closely monitor your child’s fluid intake to prevent dehydration and ensure they are getting enough fluids.
- Encourage Rest and Recovery: Our team will work with you to develop a plan to help your child get plenty of rest and recover from the infection.
Why Choose Us
Expert team
Our pediatric specialists have extensive experience in treating children.
Personalized care
We create treatment plans that fit each child’s unique needs
Support and education
We teach children and families how to care for them and prevent future cases
Advanced treatments
Access to the latest treatments and products
Contact
Please feel free to contact us with any general or medical enquiry by calling us.
