Atypical Pneumonia and Anemia: A Strained Relationship

Some cases of pneumonia manifest different symptoms, as a function of the strain of bacterial infection. These cases are called atypical pneumonia. Individuals with this type of pneumonia could experience the usual symptoms of chills, cough, fever, or chest pain, but could be more prone to other diseases, such as anemia.

The bacteria that infect the individual with atypical pneumonia produce milder symptoms and dry cough, although these are usually prolonged. As such, the bacteria can gradually destroy the immune system, leading to a variety of illnesses. Moreover, medical studies have found cases where the condition coincides with bone marrow abnormalities. The bacteria invade the bone and could potentially reduce the number of white blood cells, leading to the low platelet count that characterizes anemia.

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It has been found that children or young adults are most at risk of developing atypical pneumonia, as their immune systems are still relatively weak. Parents should be especially cautious about bringing their children in areas where they could be exposed to disease contraction. Agricultural or pastoral features (such as areas inhabited by cattle, pigs, sheep, pigeons, turkeys, etc.) and construction works are common hazardous areas. Unfortunately, pneumonia is a condition that can be brought on by various strains of bacteria – each with their own characteristics and treatment plans.

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Patients with both pneumonia and anemia should immediately visit their physician. Usually the pneumonia is addressed by treatments first, as it is the direct cause of anemia. However, it must be noted that these treatment plans have a lengthy duration, since doctors are not inclined to prescribe aggressive medicine that could further weaken the patient.

Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon is a recognized internist, specializing in pulmonary medicine. Learn more about her practice by liking this Facebook page.

What You Need to Know About Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

One in ten Americans have Restless Legs Syndrome? Also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, the Restless Leg Sydrome is a neurologic-sensory and sleeping disorder that gives a person an urge to move legs while at rest. It is possible for a person to show signs of the Willis-Ekbom Disease in other parts like the arms, face, torso, and genital region. It occurs during inactivity (sleep or rest), and is usually calmed by pressure or big movement. It is usually manifested during nighttime, and can greatly interfere with a patient’s sleep patterns.

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The main cause for the condition is still unknown. While others believe that RLS can be hereditary or idiopathic (primary RLS), some obtain the disease because of an underlying medical condition (pregnancy, diabetes, kidney failure, anemia, etc.), or the use of medication or other substances. More than 80 percent of people who have RLS also have PLMD or the periodic limb movement disorder. Symptoms of PLMD include leg twitching or jerking.

RLS can occur at any age, regardless of gender. It also runs in families as it is genetic, and it can also be a sign for developmental disorders in some children.

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If you are showing signs of Restless Legs Syndrome, consult a medical professional, and ask how they can be of help to you.

Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon specializes in critical care and sleep medicine. Follow this Twitter account for more health-related discussions.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of ‘walking pneumonia’

Atypical or mycoplasma pneumonia, more popularly known as “walking pneumonia” is a mild form of pneumonia that typically goes undiagnosed because people rarely seek medical help for it. However, because this infection and its symptoms can linger on for a long time and can be spread easily, it’s best to nip the illness in the bud as soon as it appears.

To do so, one must be familiar with the signs of this illness, which typically appear 15 to 25 days after a person is exposed to the mycoplasma bacteria. Long-term colds that last more than a week can also turn into walking pneumonia. Similar to its more severe sibling, walking pneumonia’s most obvious symptom is coughing with very little mucus or phlegm produced, and difficulty breathing. Patients may also experience low-grade fever and chills ranging from 101 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, fatigue, appetite loss, and headaches. Some may also have trouble breathing and develop skin rashes.

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A few days’ treatment with antibiotics is usually recommended for walking pneumonia patients as over-the-counter flu and cold medicines aren’t enough to treat the illness. However, most people don’t go to the doctor as symptoms will usually dissipate completely after a few weeks.

That said, despite the mildness of walking pneumonia, it’s best for people within the same household, school, or office to ensure proper care so as not to spread it. While a patient on antibiotics will be less contagious, frequent proper handwashing, and covering the mouth when coughing and sneezing are musts.

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Before drinking medicine, however, it’s best to consult with a doctor to make sure that it is indeed walking pneumonia and not another condition so that one can get proper treatment and relief. Seeing a doctor is also imperative if symptoms appear to worsen over time.
Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon is a physician specializing in pulmonology, sleep medicine, and critical care medicine. For more updates on these areas of health care, subscribe to this Facebook page.