Yes, you can have atypical pneumonia without having a fever. Atypical pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. It is often less severe than typical pneumonia and does not always cause a fever. Symptoms of atypical pneumonia include a cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, headache, fatigue, and body aches.
What Causes Atypical Pneumonia?
Atypical pneumonia is typically caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. The most common cause of atypical pneumonia is the bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae, also known as “walking pneumonia.” It is spread through contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person. Other bacteria, such as Chlamydia pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, and Coxiella burnetii, can also cause atypical pneumonia. Fungi, such as Cryptococcus and Histoplasma, and certain viruses, such as RSV and Influenza, can also cause atypical pneumonia.
What Are The Symptoms of Atypical Pneumonia?
The symptoms of atypical pneumonia can vary depending on the cause. In general, symptoms of atypical pneumonia can include:
• Cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Body aches
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
In some cases, a person with atypical pneumonia may not have a fever. However, if the infection is caused by a virus, a fever may be present.
How Is Atypical Pneumonia Diagnosed?
Atypical pneumonia is usually diagnosed with a physical exam, a chest X-ray, and a blood test. Your doctor may also take a sample of sputum to test for the presence of bacteria, fungi, or viruses.
How Is Atypical Pneumonia Treated?
Treatment for atypical pneumonia depends on the cause of the infection. If the cause is bacterial, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. If the cause is a virus, there is no specific treatment, but your doctor may recommend rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to relieve the symptoms. If the cause is a fungus, your doctor may prescribe antifungal medications.