Mycoplasma pneumonia is a common infection that affects the lungs and this is caused by the mycoplasma pneumonia bacteria. This condition is a form of atypical pneumonia and it normally affects individuals who are younger than 40. This form of pneumonia accounts for around 15 to 50% of all the pneumonia cases. The condition of mycoplasma pneumonia is spread when the bacteria is transmitted through respiratory droplets. This condition can be differentiated from other kinds of pneumonia by the slow progression of the associated symptoms.

Individuals working or living in crowded areas including homeless shelters or schools are at a greater risk of developing mycoplasma pneumonia. The symptoms associated with this condition tend to appear over a time period of around 1 to 3 weeks.The symptoms are generally mild and appear over a period of 1 to 3 weeks. They may become more severe in some people. The symptoms associated with this condition include chest pain, cough and excessive sweating. The cough is not bloody and is usually dry. Those suffering from this condition may also get fever, headache and sore throat.

Some other symptoms that may be rarely experienced include ear pain, muscle aches, eye pain, neck lump, rapid breathing and skin lesions. Those suspected to be suffering from mycoplasma pneumonia need to get a complete medical checkup or evaluation done. Some of the tests that may be undertaken include blood culture, complete blood count (CBC), bronchoscopy, blood tests for antibodies of mycoplasma, sputum culture and open lung biopsy.

Treatment of mycoplasma pneumonia requires patients to take some antibiotics. Those suffering from this condition also have to take adequate rest and drink enough fluids and eat food items rich in protein. Possible complications that may accompany this condition include haemolytic anemia, severe pneumonia, skin rashes or ear infections.