From the Guidelines
Mycoplasma pneumonia is a lung infection that can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and antibiotics, and it's essential to follow the treatment plan and self-care measures to reduce symptoms and support recovery. To help manage your symptoms at home, rest as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650mg every 6 hours or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 400-600mg every 6-8 hours as needed for fever and discomfort, as recommended by studies such as 1. Use a humidifier or take steamy showers to ease breathing and loosen mucus. Avoid smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
- Complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, typically azithromycin for 5 days or doxycycline for 7-10 days, even if you start feeling better, as suggested by 1.
- Cough medicines containing dextromethorphan may help control persistent coughing.
- Most people recover within 1-2 weeks, but seek immediate medical attention if you experience worsening shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or high fever that doesn't respond to medication. These self-care measures work alongside antibiotics by reducing inflammation, keeping airways moist, and supporting your body's natural healing process, as supported by studies such as 1. It's also crucial to follow proper hygiene and infection control measures, such as those outlined in 1, to prevent the spread of infection to others.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Managing Mycoplasma Pneumonia Symptoms at Home
If you have been diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumonia, there are several things you can do at home to help manage your symptoms.
- Get plenty of rest to help your body recover from the infection 2
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, and soup
- Use a humidifier to help relieve cough and congestion
- Take over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help reduce fever and relieve headaches and body aches
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is essential to seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or tightness
- Severe headache or confusion
- Fever over 102°F (39°C)
- Coughing up blood or yellow or green mucus
Treatment Options
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, such as azithromycin, to help treat the infection 3, 4. In some cases, corticosteroids may be used to help reduce inflammation 2. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and take all medications as prescribed.
Preventing the Spread of Infection
To prevent the spread of Mycoplasma pneumonia, it is essential to:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid close contact with others, especially those with weakened immune systems
- Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with others 5