Pneumonia is a lung infection. It can occur in people of all ages.
Atypical pneumonia may present as a mild form of infection compared to other types of pneumonia. Many people with atypical pneumonia can continue normal activities while sick. It is also commonly known as walking pneumonia.
All types of pneumonia are potentially serious conditions. It will require care from your doctor.
Atypical pneumonia may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. They tend to be different than the bacteria that cause more traditional forms of pneumonia.
Factors that may increase the chances of atypical pneumonia:
Symptoms of atypical pneumonia may include any of the following:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. To look for an infection or specific causes of the infection your doctor may ask for:
Your doctor may also need to take pictures of your lungs. This is done with a chest x-ray.
Pneumonia can cause problems with breathing. This may make it difficult for you to get enough oxygen. To measure the level of oxygen in your blood your doctor may do the following tests:
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Atypical pneumonia can be treated with oral antibiotics. These medications are most often taken at home. However, more severe pneumonia may require antibiotics be delivered through an IV in the hospital.
If you are severely ill from pneumonia, you may need extra oxygen. Some people need to be intubated if their lungs are not working well enough. This is the placement of a tube in your throat. It can provide pressure to help keep your lungs open while delivering oxygen.
To help reduce the chances of atypical and other types of pneumonia:
American Lung Association
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
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Learn about pneumonia. American Lung Association website. Available at: http://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/pneumonia/learn-about-pneumonia.html. Accessed February 16, 2018.
Pneumonia. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/pneumonia. Updated August 2017. Accessed February 16, 2018.
Thibodeau KP, Viera A.J. Atypical pathogens and challenges in community-acqiured pneumonia. Am Fam Physician. 2004;69(7):1699-1706.
Last reviewed February 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.