Learn the key differences between walking pneumonia and regular pneumonia. Visit urgent care near you for expert care today!

As winter arrives in South Asheville, NC, respiratory illnesses often become more common. Whether you’re enjoying the stunning trails at the North Carolina Arboretum or strolling through historic Biltmore Village, it’s important to understand illnesses like pneumonia to stay healthy and active. This blog explores the differences between walking pneumonia and regular pneumonia, helping you identify symptoms and know when to visit your local urgent care for expert care.

Visit AFC South Asheville today.

What Is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, leading to inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs. These sacs can fill with fluid or mucus, causing symptoms such as coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia can range from mild to life-threatening, particularly for those at higher risk, such as young children, older adults, or individuals with weakened immune systems.

Walking pneumonia, or atypical pneumonia, is a milder form of this infection. Unlike regular pneumonia, it often doesn’t require bed rest or hospitalization, allowing people to continue with daily activities despite feeling unwell. However, even mild cases should not be ignored, as walking pneumonia can still progress to more severe complications if untreated.

What Are the Symptoms of Both?

Both walking pneumonia and regular pneumonia share some overlapping symptoms, but the severity and onset of these symptoms differ.

Common Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia:

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

Common Symptoms of Regular Pneumonia:

• High fever with chills
• Severe chest pain, especially during deep breathing or coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Productive cough with yellow or green mucus
• Extreme fatigue

Walking pneumonia symptoms tend to develop gradually and are mild, while regular pneumonia symptoms often appear suddenly and are much more intense.

What Are the Key Differences Between the Two Types?

• Severity: Walking pneumonia is typically mild and doesn’t interfere significantly with daily activities. Regular pneumonia, however, can be debilitating and may require hospitalization.
• Onset of Symptoms: Walking pneumonia symptoms appear gradually over days or weeks, whereas regular pneumonia symptoms usually develop quickly.
• Duration: Without treatment, walking pneumonia may persist for weeks, while regular pneumonia generally resolves faster with proper medical care.
• Causes: Walking pneumonia is commonly caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria but can also result from viruses. Regular pneumonia may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, depending on individual health factors.

How Is Walking Pneumonia Treated?

The treatment approach depends on the underlying cause:

• Bacterial Causes: Antibiotics are prescribed, typically clearing symptoms within a week or two.
• Viral Causes: Supportive care, including over-the-counter medications, hydration, and rest, is recommended, as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.

At AFC Urgent Care South Asheville, we may recommend the following for symptom relief:

• Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and discomfort.
• Cough suppressants if coughing interferes with daily life or sleep.
• Increased hydration and rest to promote recovery.

Without appropriate treatment, walking pneumonia can linger, increasing the risk of complications or transmission to others.

How Can I Prevent Walking Pneumonia?

You can reduce your risk with these simple steps:

• Get Vaccinated: Annual flu vaccines can help prevent respiratory infections that may lead to pneumonia.
• Practice Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, especially during the cold and flu season.
• Avoid Sick Contacts: Limit exposure to individuals with respiratory illnesses.
• Stay Healthy: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep to support your immune system.

When Should I Visit AFC Urgent Care South Asheville?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of walking pneumonia or suspect regular pneumonia, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Visit us if you have:

• Persistent symptoms lasting more than a few days without improvement.
• Difficulty breathing or significant chest pain.
• A worsening or persistent cough, particularly with discolored mucus.
• A high fever or chills.

At AFC Urgent Care South Asheville, our experienced medical team provides same-day evaluations and treatments for walking pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses. With on-site X-ray imaging and lab testing, we can accurately diagnose your condition and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Stay proactive this winter to protect your health. Visit AFC Urgent Care South Asheville today—no appointment necessary!