Common symptoms of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection mainly include general malaise such as cough, fever, headache, and fatigue, as well as respiratory symptoms such as sputum production, chest tightness, and chest pain. Cough is the most common symptom, initially a dry cough that gradually worsens as the disease progresses, becoming a persistent, severe cough with thick, sticky sputum or blood-streaked sputum. Fever is also a common symptom of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, with patients often experiencing temperatures around 39°C that can last for 1–3 weeks. Other systemic symptoms include headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. Respiratory symptoms also include sputum production, chest tightness, and shortness of breath; in severe cases, dyspnea and wheezing may occur. Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can also cause extrapulmonary symptoms, such as cardiovascular and neurological disorders. Because the symptoms of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection are similar to other respiratory diseases, it is easily misdiagnosed or missed.
Common symptoms of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection include:
1. Cough: This is the most prominent symptom. Patients will experience a persistent dry cough, which usually worsens at night or in the early morning, and sometimes manifests as paroxysmal severe coughing similar to whooping cough. As the condition progresses, the cough may last for weeks or even months.
2. Fever: Patients may experience high fever, with body temperature reaching around 39°C, which may last for 1 to 3 weeks.
3. Fatigue, headache and muscle aches: These symptoms usually appear in the early stages of infection and subside on their own after 2 to 3 days.
4. Respiratory symptoms: Symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, and chest pain may occur.
5. Digestive system symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, etc. may occur.
6. Other symptoms: Some patients may experience joint pain, rash, cardiovascular disease, and other symptoms.
The symptoms of mycoplasma pneumoniae infection are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, making it easy to misdiagnose or miss. If symptoms such as persistent cough and high fever occur, you should seek medical attention promptly and follow your doctor's treatment instructions. Maintaining good lifestyle habits and strengthening your immunity are also important measures for preventing and treating mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.