If your child has been coughing for a week and still seems tired, despite resting and taking cold medicine, you might be starting to wonder if it’s more than just a common cold. While many coughs are harmless, a persistent cough in children can sometimes signal something more serious, like walking pneumonia.
What is Walking Pneumonia?
Walking pneumonia is a mild form of pneumonia that can affect people of all ages and is often caused by bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae. It typically leads to infection and fluid buildup in the lungs. Walking pneumonia is most common in children. Although it is less severe than other types of pneumonia, it can still be concerning.
Each year, over 150 million children under the age of 5 are affected by pneumonia, and walking pneumonia is one of the most common types. While walking pneumonia usually doesn’t require hospitalization, monitoring symptoms and seeking medical advice if they persist or worsen is important.
Walking Pneumonia Symptoms in Children
Walking pneumonia shares many symptoms with the common cold, which is why it is often overlooked. Below are the most common indicators.
- A dry, persistent cough that lasts for more than a week
- A lack of normal energy levels
- Mild chest discomfort when breathing
- Headache, sore throat, chills, or body aches
- A mild to moderate fever
- Mild shortness of breath, wheezing, or labored breathing, especially with physical activity
- Nasal symptoms like a runny nose or congestion
- Fluid buildup or pressure in the ears
When Should You See a Doctor?
Although walking pneumonia is generally mild, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if your or your child’s symptoms last for more than a week or worsen. If your child is having difficulty breathing or their fever persists, seek care at your nearest urgent care clinic for a thorough physical exam.
Is Walking Pneumonia Contagious?
The bacteria that cause walking pneumonia are spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs. If your child is sick with walking pneumonia it’s important to encourage them to practice good hygiene habits and take extra precautions to prevent spreading the infection to others.
Treatment for Walking Pneumonia
Rest and hydration are essential for recovering from walking pneumonia. In most cases, a healthcare provider will prescribe an oral antibiotic. Walking pneumonia can take up to six weeks to fully clear.
Treating Walking Pneumonia at Integrity Urgent Care
For treatment and prevention of walking pneumonia and other common illnesses in children, rely on Integrity Urgent Care. With convenient locations across the state of Texas, we provide high-quality, affordable healthcare for your family. We offer appointments and walk-in treatment for general illnesses, infections, injuries, and same-day testing results. Find a provider near you and walk in or check-in online.
