What are the four stages of mycoplasma cough?
Jan 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the four stages of mycoplasma cough are the initial stage, progressive stage, peak stage, and recovery stage. It is recommended that patients with mycoplasma infection drink plenty of water daily, as adequate hydration can lubricate the respiratory tract, relieve discomfort caused by coughing, help thin mucus, making it easier to expel phlegm, thereby alleviating cough symptoms.
Generally, the four stages of a Mycoplasma-induced cough are the initial stage, progressive stage, peak stage, and recovery stage. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Initial Stage: Mycoplasma initially invades the respiratory mucosa, irritating the mucous membrane and triggering a cough reflex. During the early phase of Mycoplasma infection, coughing typically presents as an irritating dry cough. The cough is often intermittent, sometimes accompanied by a mild itching sensation in the throat. Generally, no significant phlegm is produced; even if small amounts are present, they are difficult to expel.
2. Progressive Stage: Mycoplasma multiplies extensively within the respiratory tract, further damaging the structural integrity of the respiratory mucosa. The cough becomes more frequent and severe, with an intensified itching sensation in the throat and a stronger, harder-to-control urge to cough. At this stage, small amounts of sticky phlegm begin to appear; the phlegm is usually thick and may appear white or slightly yellowish.
3. Peak Stage: The inflammatory response caused by Mycoplasma infection reaches its peak, with significant damage to the respiratory mucosa. Coughing is most severe during this stage and may occur frequently, greatly affecting the patient's daily life. The volume of phlegm increases noticeably, remaining thick in consistency, and its color may darken to yellow or yellow-green.
4. Recovery Stage: With effective treatment, the number of Mycoplasma organisms is controlled, and the inflammatory response gradually subsides. Following a period of treatment or through the body's own immune regulation, the cough begins to gradually diminish. The amount of phlegm decreases accordingly, becoming thinner and lighter in color, eventually returning to white or transparent.
It is recommended that patients with Mycoplasma infection drink plenty of water daily. Adequate hydration helps lubricate the respiratory tract, alleviating discomfort caused by coughing, and aids in thinning the phlegm, making it easier to expel, thereby relieving cough symptoms.
