Atypical pneumonia

Alternative names:

Chlamydial pneumonia (C. psittacosis); Chlamydial pneumonia (C. trachomatis); pneumonia - atypical

Treatment:

Mild cases may not require medication. Antibiotic therapy is prescribed for bacterial infections, but it is not effective in treating pneumonia caused by viruses. Oxygen therapy may be indicated if hypoxemia (low oxygen concentration in the blood) is present. Other treatments to relieve symptoms include respiratory treatments to remove secretions, increased fluid intake, and analgesics.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most patients will respond to the treatment and improve in 2 weeks.

Complications:

There are usually no complications.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if unexplained symptoms are present.