What are the differences between cough caused by mycoplasma infection and common cough?

Generally, the differences between cough caused by Mycoplasma infection and common cough mainly include duration, nature of cough, accompanying symptoms, triggering factors, and response to treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Duration of cough: Cough due to Mycoplasma infection tends to last longer, typically 2–4 weeks. In some patients, symptoms resolve slowly, and even conventional antitussive medications show limited effectiveness. Common cough usually lasts a shorter time—about 1–2 weeks—and is often triggered by colds or acute bronchitis. As the underlying condition improves, the cough gradually diminishes and resolves.

2. Nature of cough: Mycoplasma-related cough is typically a persistent, irritating dry cough, sometimes with only a small amount of white mucus. The coughing is severe and often significantly worse at night or in the early morning, severely disrupting sleep. Common cough usually starts as a dry cough but may later produce more phlegm, which can change color depending on disease progression; for example, a mild yellowish sputum may appear in the later stages of a cold-induced cough. The intensity of common cough is generally milder.

3. Accompanying symptoms: Mycoplasma-related cough is frequently accompanied by sore throat, fatigue, and fever, usually low-grade or moderate (body temperature between 37.5°C and 38.5°C). Some patients may also experience muscle aches. Common cough is more often associated with upper respiratory symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. Fever, if present, is usually mild and resolves within 1–3 days. Muscle pain is uncommon.

4. Triggering factors: Mycoplasma-related cough is caused by infection with the Mycoplasma pathogen, transmitted via respiratory droplets. It spreads easily in crowded settings such as schools and kindergartens, with no strict seasonal pattern, though it is relatively more common in autumn and winter. Common cough is often triggered by cold exposure or fatigue leading to reduced immunity, resulting in bacterial or common viral infections. It may also be induced by inhaling irritant gases or dust, and commonly occurs during seasonal transitions or sudden temperature changes.

5. Response to treatment: Cough caused by Mycoplasma infection does not respond to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics. Instead, macrolide antibiotics such as azithromycin oral suspension, roxithromycin capsules, or clarithromycin tablets should be used under medical guidance, along with antitussive medications to relieve symptoms. For common cough caused by bacterial infection, penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics are effective. If the cause is viral, antibiotics are unnecessary.

In daily life, it's important to stay warm and avoid chilling, maintain good indoor ventilation, and reduce visits to crowded places. Drink plenty of warm water during coughing episodes and avoid spicy or irritating foods, which can help alleviate cough symptoms and promote recovery.