Not feeling your best but powering through plans like seeing family, going on a date at New Zealand Cafe, or checking off your to-do list? Respiratory illnesses, such as pneumonia, tend to increase during winter in Charlotte, NC and surrounding areas. This blog dives into walking pneumonia, how it compares to regular pneumonia, and when it’s time to visit AFC Urgent Care Monroe Rd for care and peace of mind.

Visit AFC Monroe Rd today.

What is Pneumonia?

This lung infection, caused by bacteria, viruses, or mold, inflames the air sacs and fills them with fluid or mucus. Pneumonia leads to symptoms like coughing, fever, and shortness of breath, and its severity can vary greatly. High-risk individuals, including children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are more vulnerable to severe outcomes. Walking pneumonia, or atypical pneumonia, is a milder version that doesn’t always require resting in bed. However, it’s not harmless and should be treated to avoid worsening symptoms.

Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia vs. Regular Pneumonia

Both forms of pneumonia share similar symptoms but vary significantly in severity.

Common Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia:

• Persistent dry cough
• Mild chest congestion
• Low-grade fever
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Headache and body aches

Symptoms of Regular Pneumonia:

• High fever with chills
• Severe chest pain, especially when breathing deeply or coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Productive cough with yellow or green mucus
• Profound fatigue

While walking pneumonia symptoms are often mild and gradual, regular pneumonia symptoms tend to appear suddenly and are more intense.

If you believe you’re experiencing these symptoms, visit AFC Monroe Rd today.

Key Differences

Severity:

Walking pneumonia is mild, allowing individuals to remain active, whereas regular pneumonia can be debilitating, often requiring bed rest or even hospitalization.

Onset of Symptoms:

Walking pneumonia symptoms develop gradually over several days to weeks, while regular pneumonia symptoms typically emerge rapidly.

Duration of Illness:

Walking pneumonia can linger for four to six weeks without proper treatment, whereas regular pneumonia often resolves more quickly with prompt medical care.

Causes:

Walking pneumonia is most commonly caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a type of bacteria, but it can also be triggered by viruses. Regular pneumonia may result from bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, depending on the individual’s health and exposure risks.

Treatment Options for Walking Pneumonia

The treatment for walking pneumonia depends on its cause.

Bacterial Causes: Antibiotics are prescribed to clear the infection, often resolving symptoms within a week or two.

Viral Causes: Since viruses don’t respond to antibiotics, over-the-counter medications, rest, and hydration are used to manage symptoms while the illness runs its course.

For either case, our clinic may recommend the following:

• Pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to reduce fever and discomfort.
• Cough suppressants, if coughing interferes with sleep or daily activities.
• Increased fluid intake and rest to support recovery.

Without treatment, walking pneumonia may persist for weeks, increasing the risk of spreading the infection to others and developing complications like severe pneumonia.

Prevention Tips

Preventing walking pneumonia starts with good hygiene and proactive health measures:

• Get Vaccinated: Annual flu shots can help prevent viral infections that may lead to pneumonia.
• Practice Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly and often, especially during cold and flu season.
• Avoid Sick Contacts: Limit exposure to individuals showing signs of respiratory illness.
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat nutritious foods, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep to strengthen your immune system.

When to Visit AFC Monroe Rd

While walking pneumonia is less severe than regular pneumonia, it still requires medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. You should seek care if you experience any of the following:

• Symptoms that persist for more than a few days without improvement.
• Difficulty breathing or severe chest pain.
• A persistent or worsening cough, especially with discolored mucus.
• High fever or chills.

AFC Urgent Care Monroe Rd is here to help when respiratory illnesses like walking pneumonia strike. With same-day service, on-site X-ray imaging, and lab testing, our board-certified providers ensure you get the accurate diagnosis and treatment you deserve.

Walking pneumonia doesn’t have to disrupt your winter plans. Our Monroe Rd clinic offers walk-in care to help you recover quickly and stay healthy. Stop by today—our team is ready to help you feel your best without the need for an appointment.