Atypical pneumonia is a type of lung infection caused by bacteria, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, or Legionella pneumophila. Treatment for atypical pneumonia typically involves antibiotics, rest, and fluids.
Antibiotics
The most common treatment for atypical pneumonia is antibiotics. These antibiotics can be taken by mouth or injected. Common antibiotics used to treat atypical pneumonia include macrolides such as azithromycin (Zithromax), clarithromycin (Biaxin), and erythromycin. Other antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines, may also be used.
Rest and Fluids
In addition to antibiotics, rest and fluids are important for the treatment of atypical pneumonia. Rest helps the body heal and can help reduce fatigue. Fluids help thin mucus, which can make it easier to expel from the lungs. It is important to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, or sports drinks, to keep the body hydrated.
Preventative Measures
It is important to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of getting atypical pneumonia. This includes avoiding contact with people who have respiratory illnesses, washing hands frequently, and avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. Vaccines are available to protect against certain forms of pneumonia, such as the pneumococcal vaccine.