What are the symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia in children?
Childhood mycoplasma pneumonia, also known as pediatric mycoplasma pneumonia, is an acute inflammatory condition of the bronchi and alveoli in children caused by infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Common symptoms in children include fever, cough, fatigue, headache, and loss of appetite. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Fever
After Mycoplasma pneumoniae enters the body, it stimulates the immune system and affects the body's temperature regulation center, raising the temperature set point and causing fever. Most children develop moderate to high fever, although some may experience low-grade fever, which can last 1–3 weeks.
2. Cough
Cough is the main symptom of pediatric mycoplasma pneumonia. It typically appears 2–3 days after onset and initially presents as paroxysmal dry cough. As the disease progresses, it may become a persistent cough with yellow or white sputum, occasionally streaked with blood.
3. Fatigue
This disease often triggers an inflammatory response, leading to excessive energy consumption and resulting in fatigue in affected children.
4. Headache
Fever in children can cause cerebral blood vessel dilation, making headaches more likely.
5. Loss of appetite
In severe cases, the illness may affect the digestive system, impairing digestive function and leading to reduced appetite.
Parents should promptly take affected children to see a doctor and initiate active treatment. Medications such as azithromycin granules, enteric-coated erythromycin capsules, and roxithromycin granules may be used as directed by a physician. These antibiotics have anti-inflammatory effects and can effectively promote recovery.