What Is Multifocal Pneumonia? Here's What to Know, According to Doctors

Walking Pneumonia On The Rise: What You Need To Know

Walking pneumonia is on the rise, especially in kids. Learn the signs, spread, and why it's different from the common cold. Highlights:

Walking pneumonia is a mild form of pneumonia, mainly affecting children, teens, and young adults, spreading slowly through respiratory droplets

Symptoms like persistent dry cough, chest tightness, and fatigue can last weeks, requiring antibiotics for quicker recovery

Rising cases may be linked to immunity gaps from the COVID-19 pandemic, warm weather, and improved testing capabilities

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection- or "walking pneumonia"- is on the rise in the United States, particularly among children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (1). 'Walking pneumonia cases are rising, especially among kids. Symptoms include a lingering dry cough & chest tightness. Know the signs & protect your family! #healthalert #medindia'

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What is Walking Pneumonia? Walking pneumonia is a less severe kind of pneumonia, according to Michael Chang, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at UTHealth Houston. Every year, there are an estimated 2 million infections in the United States. However, Chang stated that without a national reporting mechanism to track these diseases, it is difficult to ascertain the exact number (1).

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Who Can Develop Walking Pneumonia and How Does It Spread? Walking pneumonia can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent among school-aged children, teenagers, and young adults (2). It is infrequently identified in preschool-aged children, who are far more likely to develop viral lower respiratory tract infections, viral pneumonia, or "classic" bacterial pneumonia.

Walking pneumonia, like other respiratory illnesses, spreads via respiratory droplets when people come into close contact, when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, bacteria in the droplets can be ingested by others, resulting in illness (2).

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Why Are Walking Pneumonia Cases Rising? It's unknown why instances are increasing right now, but warm weather, children returning to school, and adults returning to in-person employment could all have a role, according to Sharon Nachman, M.D., Chief of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Stony Brook Children's Hospital.

"It is also possible that our ability to rapidly test for this pathogen via PCR testing may have contributed to the spike of recognized cases," Nachman informed Verywell through an email.

Chang suggested that cyclical tendencies could potentially explain the growth. Walking pneumonia surges every three to seven years, but they are difficult to foresee without a national surveillance system. These surges often occur in late summer or early fall. Because symptoms can take 2-3 weeks to show, people can unintentionally spread the virus, making transmission easier.

"Furthermore, some patients can shed Mycoplasma for months even after receiving appropriate antibiotics," according to Chang. Chang also suggested that immunity gaps may be contributing to the surge. During the COVID-19 pandemic, children were exposed to fewer pathogens, which could impair their immune systems. "This immunity gap may make children more susceptible to infections now, coinciding with a seasonal epidemic," according to him.

While some immunity develops following a walking pneumonia infection, Chang said it is unclear how long that protection lasts, and people can be infected numerous times in their lives.

What are the Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia? Walking pneumonia symptoms are similar to those of common upper respiratory illnesses, such as fever, runny nose, and cough, and are not caused by a specific virus or bacteria.

However, Nachman observed that Mycoplasma infections are frequently accompanied by a persistent cough that can endure for weeks or even months. This occurs because the infection damages the lungs' cilia, which normally help clear mucus and bacteria.

Chang stated that the illness in younger children is usually moderate or asymptomatic, but it can cause major breathing problems in individuals with compromised immune systems. The CDC also reports weariness, cold, and shortness of breath as typical symptoms (3). In rare situations, M. Pneumoniae can cause acute central nervous system (CNS) infections, probably due to antibodies that wrongly attack brain cells.

How does Walking Pneumonia Differ from the Common Cold? Observing how walking pneumonia spreads throughout a family can help separate it from the ordinary cold. "Viral infections often spread quickly from person to person within a household, so if siblings or family members get sick within a few days of each other, it's more likely to be a virus that is causing the symptoms," Chang told CNN. If the infection spreads slowly, with a week or two between cases, Mycoplasma could be the culprit.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is characterized by coughing in bursts or "fits," during which patients struggle to breathe. This cough can last for a month or more, unlike other viral illnesses, which recover quickly.

Nachman encouraged parents to look for indicators of laborious breathing in their children, such as neck or rib muscle tightness or trouble with strenuous activity like climbing stairs.

How Does a Pneumonia Cough Sound and Feel? A pneumonia cough can differ based on the type of infection. Chang explained that in most cases of bacterial pneumonia, the cough is "wet," producing mucus, phlegm, or pus. Chest pain is also common, especially after deep breaths, and it can worsen depending on your position, such as sleeping down.

Chang observed that M. Pneumoniae typically causes a dry cough, which is frequently accompanied by chest tightness and difficulties taking deep breaths. Wheezing occurs more frequently, and continuous coughing might cause muscular or rib pain.

Nachman underlined that pneumonia does not create the distinctive "whoop" of whooping cough or the "barking" sound of croup. Some youngsters cough so intensely that they vomit mucus, while others swallow it, reducing their appetite.

When Should You Visit a Doctor? There are no vaccinations available to prevent Mycoplasma infection. If you or someone you know develops shortness of breath, wheezing, or difficulty completing words, Chang advises seeking medical assistance straight once. Trouble eating in newborns may potentially indicate a more serious viral infection. If a fever persists for more than a week, parents should seek medical attention.

Chang points out that many doctors do not check for Mycoplasma or have testing accessible, making it difficult to establish the diagnosis. However, if a clinician suspects Mycoplasma, medications such as azithromycin or doxycycline are commonly administered.

"Antibiotics are most helpful if started within three to four days of the start of symptoms," according to Chang. "After that, it's unclear how much antibiotics help if people have already started coughing. It is unclear whether antibiotics help to resolve this faster."

References:

Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections Have Been Increasing (https://www.Cdc.Gov/ncird/whats-new/mycoplasma-pneumoniae-infections-have-been-increasing.Html)

Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection: Causes and How It Spreads (https://www.Cdc.Gov/mycoplasma/causes/index.Html#:~:text=The%20bacteria%20are%20spread%20through,increased%20risk%20for%20serious%20infection.)

About Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection (https://www.Cdc.Gov/mycoplasma/about/index.Html)

Source-Medindia

World Pneumonia Day: 7 Yoga Asanas To Keep Lungs Healthy And Improve Breathing Capacity

Pnuemonia Management Tips: Here are the top 7 yoga asanas to keep the lungs healthy and clean. World Pneumonia Day: 7 Yoga Asanas To Keep Lungs Healthy And Improve Breathing Capacity

World Pneumonia Day, celebrated on November 12, highlights the vital issue of pneumonia, a serious lung infection that impacts millions around the world.

Pneumonia is a serious respiratory illness that impacts millions of people around the globe. It occurs when the air sacs in one or both lungs become inflamed and may fill with fluid or pus, potentially leading to severe health issues. Pneumonia can be categorized into various types based on what causes the infection. The most common include: Bacterial Pneumonia (Triggered by bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae, this form is often more serious and typically treated with antibiotics), and Viral Pneumonia (Usually caused by viruses like the flu, this type might resolve on its own without the need for antibiotics).

The condition can turn fatal if proper care is not taken on time, which is why it's crucial to understand the seriousness of pneumonia and recognise its symptoms. Scroll down to know more.

Symptoms of Pneumonia

Identifying pneumonia symptoms is key for quick diagnosis and effective treatment. Typical symptoms include

Coughing,

Fever

Chills, and

Trouble breathing

Some patients may also have chest pain, fatigue, and confusion, especially older adults. The intensity of these symptoms can differ depending on a person's age and general health condition. If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it's important to get medical help promptly, as early treatment can greatly improve recovery chances.

How To Keep The Lungs Healthy: 7 Yoga You Must Try!

Try these 7 yoga asanas to keep the lungs healthy and clean naturally without any surgeries:

Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

Bhujangasana, or Cobra Pose, helps open up the chest and expand lung capacity. To perform this pose, lie down flat on your stomach, place your palms beneath your shoulders, and gently lift your chest while keeping your pelvis on the ground. This stretch benefits the lungs and promotes better oxygen intake, making it essential for maintaining lung health.

Matsyasana (Fish Pose)

Matsyasana, or Fish Pose, is a great way to expand lung capacity further. For this pose, lie on your back, arch upward with your chest, and rest the crown of your head on the floor. This opens your throat and chest, allowing for deeper breaths and better lung function. Practicing this asana can help mitigate respiratory issues and increase lung efficiency.

Kapalabhati Pranayama (Skull Shining Breath)

Kapalabhati, or Skull Shining Breath, is an effective technique to cleanse the lungs and boost lung performance. It involves quick, forceful exhales followed by gentle inhales. This method helps clear your airways, increases oxygen flow, and enhances lung capacity. Including Kapalabhati in your routine can significantly improve your lung health.

Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing)

Anulom Vilom, or Alternate Nostril Breathing, is a soothing breathing practice that helps balance out your breath. To try this, close one nostril and inhale through the other, then switch. This exercise not only fortifies the lungs but also alleviates stress and anxiety, making it a well-rounded way to care for your breathing.

Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)

Dhanurasana, or Bow Pose, is another powerful pose that strengthens the back while opening the chest, thereby improving lung function. To execute this pose, lie on your stomach, bend your knees, and grasp your ankles, lifting both your chest and thighs off the ground. This promotes better lung capacity and encourages deeper breathing, enhancing your respiratory health.

Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)

Setu Bandhasana, or Bridge Pose, is highly beneficial for lung function. To do this pose, lie on your back, bend your knees, and lift your hips while keeping your shoulders and feet on the floor. This position opens up the chest and allows for more profound breathing, supporting increased lung capacity and oxygen intake.

Utkatasana (Chair Pose)

Utkatasana, or Chair Pose, not only strengthens your legs but also opens the chest and enhances breathing. Stand tall, bend your knees as if to sit, and raise your arms overhead. This pose promotes deep inhalation and builds endurance, both of which are crucial for healthy lungs.

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How To Tell If You Have Pneumonia Or The Common Cold

PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

It's cold and flu season, but cases of pneumonia seem to be popping up everywhere too. The CDC has stated that cases of bacterial infections caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae have increased in the United States since late spring and have remained high.   

Cases have increased significantly among young children, notable because they have not historically been widely affected by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. 

Dr. Graham Snyder, medical director of infection prevention and hospital epidemiology at UPMC, says like many respiratory viruses, Mycoplasma pneumoniae became uncommon during the pandemic because of social distancing and masking.  

"This is a pathogen that goes from person to person," he says. "When you cough or sneeze and you're in a close environment, it's spread by those droplets that you're coughing or sneezing, and so its reemergence has a lot to do with now we're back to our usual behaviors."

Snyder notes pneumonia, which is inflammation in the lungs, could be caused by bacteria, a virus or both. For walking pneumonia, so named because you can still function while ill, symptoms mimic cold symptoms — coughing, congestion and headache. 

Snyder says there are various ways to identify whether you're experiencing the common cold or a type of pneumonia. 

"If a child is having, let's say, a persistent cough with a fever, and you take your child to the pediatrician, the pediatrician may listen to the lungs and say, 'Aha. I can hear on the exam that sounds like there's a pneumonia."

A doctor could also order a chest X-ray, or they may use a nasal swab to test for the bacteria that causes pneumonia. 

"Usually in most offices, those are either testing just for COVID, or they're testing for a combination of COVID, flu and RSV, but some of those tests that doctors can use test for a bigger range of respiratory germs," Snyder says.

Antibiotics are appropriate for bacterial pneumonia or your doctor may prescribe an anti-viral for viral pneomnia.  

Snyder says to listen to your gut as to whether or not your illness is serious. 

"I always encourage people to use judgment," he says. "If you're concerned about how sick your child looks, for example, make sure you seek medical care. It may be appropriate to go to an urgent care or [emergency department]."

Snyder says if you have a cough or fever that lasts more than a few days you should talk to your doctor about whether it could be pneumonia.

Anyone at risk of complications, such as those with asthma, should perhaps "lower your threshold to seek care and consider antibiotic treatment."

"This can make asthma worse, and that's one of the ways that this bacteria can cause more trouble than just a mild infection," Snyder says. 

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