Walking pneumonia cases on rise in Delhi amid high air pollution: Know its causes, precautions and cure

Walking pneumonia is a milder form of pneumonia, a lung infection that causes swelling in the airways and fluid buildup in the lungs. Unlike traditional pneumonia, walking pneumonia doesn’t usually cause severe symptoms or require bed rest. People with this condition may feel well enough to go about their daily activities without realizing they have pneumonia. It’s commonly referred to as "atypical pneumonia."

How Is It Different from Regular Pneumonia?
The key difference is its mild nature. Walking pneumonia typically doesn’t lead to hospitalization or long periods of rest, unlike more severe cases of pneumonia.

Who Is at Risk?
Walking pneumonia can affect anyone, but some groups are more vulnerable, including:

Young children (2 years or younger).
Older adults (65 years or older).
People with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, or emphysema.
Smokers or those regularly exposed to tobacco smoke.
Individuals living or working in crowded spaces, such as dormitories, nursing homes, or military barracks.

Common Symptoms
Walking pneumonia symptoms can feel similar to a cold or the flu. They include:

Sore throat.
Fatigue.
Chest pain or discomfort.
Mild fever and chills.
Coughing and sneezing.
Headaches.

Causes and Contagion
Walking pneumonia is caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It’s highly contagious, spreading through tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. People are contagious for 2-4 weeks before symptoms appear and remain contagious until symptoms disappear.

Diagnosis and Testing
Healthcare providers diagnose walking pneumonia by examining symptoms, listening to lung sounds with a stethoscope, and possibly ordering chest X-rays, blood tests, or mucus samples. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and determine the cause.

Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause. If bacteria are responsible, doctors may prescribe antibiotics such as macrolides (e.g., azithromycin), fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin), or tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline). It’s essential to complete the full antibiotic course to prevent recurrence.

For viral infections, antibiotics aren’t effective, so the illness needs to run its course. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms like congestion or fever. Drinking warm fluids, using a humidifier, and resting can also ease discomfort.

Prevention Tips
Although no vaccines are available to prevent walking pneumonia, these steps can reduce your risk:

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid smoking and exposure to smoke.
Get annual flu vaccinations.
Wear a mask around sick individuals if you have a respiratory condition or weakened immunity.
Walking pneumonia usually lasts 4-6 weeks, with coughing often being the most prolonged symptom. While it may resolve on its own, consulting a healthcare provider ensures proper care and faster recovery.

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