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Chlamydia Pneumoniae Symptoms

According to the New Jersey Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 50,000 people in the United States are hospitalized due to Chlamydia pneumoniae infections each year. While symptoms are generally mild, recovery is slow, with a cough which can be persistent for up to six weeks.

  1. Facts

    • Chlamydia pneumoniae (C. pneumoniae) is a bacterium which causes illness in the respiratory tract. According to CureResearch.com, the condition is most prevalent in school children but can occur at any age.

    Early Symptoms

    • Initial symptoms of a C. pneumoniae infection include a cough which begins slowly and is accompanied by either no fever or a low-grade fever.

    Progressive Symptoms

    • As the condition progresses, many patients will develop bronchitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis or sore throat, laryngitis or mild pneumonia. Symptoms are usually mild.

    When Symptoms Emerge

    • Symptoms usually emerge approximately ten days to three weeks after exposure to the bacteria. C. pneumoniae is thought to be spread through respiratory droplets and secretions, similar to other respiratory conditions.

    Diagnosis/Treatment

    • Once symptoms emerge, your doctor will need to perform blood tests or laboratory cultures to make a definitive diagnosis. Antibiotics like tetracycline or erythromycin are commonly prescribed to eradicate the bacteria.

    Potential Complications

    • According to CureResearch.com, Chlamydia pneumoniae is being researched as having a potential link to serious conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerotic vascular disease, reactive arthritis and asthma.

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