Does a mycoplasma infection cause a contagious cough?

Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
Updated on September 13, 2024
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Cough symptoms caused by mycoplasma infection are indeed contagious. They can be transmitted through breathing, coughing, and sneezing as these actions release mycoplasma pathogens into the air. These pathogens can then spread to others via airborne droplets. Therefore, it is recommended to isolate the affected individual, wear masks for protection, and, upon diagnosis, promptly choose to administer macrolide antibiotics orally or intravenously to eliminate the mycoplasma pathogens. Additionally, cough suppressants should be used according to the nature of the cough for symptomatic treatment. It is also advised to drink plenty of water, rest adequately, measure body temperature twice daily, avoid spicy and overly greasy foods, and ensure sufficient quality sleep. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor, according to the specific situation.)

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Written by Peng Miao Yun
Internal Medicine
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How to treat cough caused by mycoplasma infection?

Mycoplasma infection cough is mainly characterized by irritating dry cough with generally little phlegm, and it can be accompanied by fever, headache, and general discomfort. The treatment for mycoplasma infection cough involves symptomatic cough suppression and the use of antibiotics that are effective against mycoplasma. For cough treatment, if there is significant wheezing, theophylline or salbutamol can be used. Additionally, if there is a concurrent infection with increased sputum production, ambroxol can be used for expectoration, along with a macrolide antibiotic sensitive to mycoplasma, such as erythromycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin, for antibacterial treatment.

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Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
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Mycoplasma infection cough symptoms

After a mycoplasma infection in the human respiratory system, it can cause diseases such as pharyngitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Coughing is a relatively obvious symptom after becoming ill. Under natural conditions, the coughing symptoms of pneumonia and mycoplasma pneumonia may continue for three to four weeks before gradually easing. However, if treated with medication, such as using macrolides or fluoroquinolones, the cough symptoms can generally be controlled within two to three weeks. Therefore, it is generally best to treat mycoplasma infections with medications, as this can shorten the duration of the illness, alleviate symptoms, and reduce the suffering of the patient. (Specific medication usage should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Peng Miao Yun
Internal Medicine
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Characteristics of Cough Symptoms in Mycoplasma Infection

Mycoplasma infection cough is a prominent symptom characterized by an incubation period. Dry cough appears two to three days later, followed by episodes of coughing. Cough may be accompanied by a small amount of mucus, or viscous secretions, sometimes with streaks of blood. The cough generally lasts for a long time, persisting for one to two weeks, and if not well managed, it can continue for about a month. Severe cough can be treated symptomatically with asthma-relieving and cough-suppressing medications.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How is mycoplasma infection detected?

Mycoplasma belongs to a type of pathogen. If a person is infected with this mycoplasma, clinical detection methods typically involve blood tests, which can confirm the presence of this pathogen in the body. Culture of secretions can also detect this pathogen. Once infection is confirmed, clinically, macrolide antibiotics are chosen for anti-inflammatory treatment. Patients with mild symptoms can take azithromycin or clarithromycin orally. If the disease duration is prolonged and oral medication is not effectively alleviating symptoms, intravenous infusions of erythromycin or azithromycin can be administered for anti-inflammatory treatment. After one course of treatment, timely follow-up is necessary to assess the recovery progress of the disease. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor based on specific circumstances.)

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Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
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Is mycoplasma infection easy to cure?

After Mycoplasma infects the human body, it often causes mycoplasma pneumonia. Once diagnosed with mycoplasma pneumonia, many patients worry about the possibility of not being cured. So, is mycoplasma infection easy to cure? Generally speaking, mycoplasma infection is self-limiting, meaning that most patients can recover without medication. Therefore, there is no need to worry too much after a mycoplasma infection. Moreover, if treated with sensitive antibiotics, the duration of the mycoplasma infection will be significantly shortened.