The cough is worse at night, and gradually produces small amounts of thick white to yellow phlegm. Later, shortness of breath may occur. Because there are many organism that may cause atypical pneumonia, it is important to tell your doctor if you have had any changes in your environment like a new home, new job, or recent travel. The doctor will probably make the diagnosis based on symptoms and physical examination byt may also order chest x-ray, blood acunt, and sputum sample. New rapid tests for M. pneumonia are being developed.
Antibiotics do appear to help relieve most of the symptoms more quickly.
The period of fever and cough as well as the amount of infectious and inflammatory material in the lungs can all be reduced with proper medication. If you are pregnant or could be pregnant be sure to tell your doctor. Side effects associated with the above medications include stomach upset, skin rashes, headaches, dizziness, and sensitivity to sunlight. More serious side effects can accompany these drugs especially at higher doses. Therefore it is important to take the medication as prescribed by the doctor.