Mycoplasma Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Information
Learn about Mycoplasma infections, including different types and their symptoms. Get key information on diagnosis, effective treatment, and prevention.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a Mycoplasma infection, you may have questions about what it is, how it affects the body, and what treatment options are available. Don’t worry—we’re here to help you understand this condition in simple terms and guide you on the best ways to manage it.
What is Mycoplasma?
Mycoplasma is a type of bacteria that lacks a cell wall, making it unique and sometimes harder to treat with common antibiotics. These bacteria can cause infections in different parts of the body, most commonly the respiratory and urinary tracts.
Types of Mycoplasma Infections
There are several types of Mycoplasma bacteria, but the most common ones affecting humans are:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae – Causes respiratory infections, including walking pneumonia (a milder form of pneumonia).
- Mycoplasma genitalium – A sexually transmitted infection (STI) affecting the urinary and reproductive systems.
- Mycoplasma hominis & Ureaplasma – Can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Symptoms of Mycoplasma Infections
The symptoms vary depending on the type of infection:
1. Mycoplasma Pneumoniae (Respiratory Infection)
- Persistent dry cough
- Sore throat
- Fatigue and weakness
- Mild fever
- Chest discomfort
- Shortness of breath (in severe cases)
2. Mycoplasma Genitalium (STI)
- Pain or burning during urination
- Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
- Pelvic pain (in women)
- Pain during intercourse
3. Mycoplasma Hominis & Ureaplasma (UTI/Pelvic Infections)
- Frequent urination
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Lower abdominal pain
- Vaginal or penile discharge
How Does Mycoplasma Spread?
The way Mycoplasma spread are:
- Respiratory infections (Mycoplasma pneumoniae) spread through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person.
- Sexually transmitted Mycoplasma (M. genitalium, M. hominis, Ureaplasma) spreads through unprotected sexual contact.
Diagnosis and Testing
If you experience symptoms, consult a doctor who may recommend:
- Blood tests (to check for antibodies)
- Throat or nasal swabs (for respiratory infections)
- Urine tests or genital swabs (for STIs)
- PCR testing (for accurate detection)
Need a test? You can easily book a Mycoplasma test on Apollo 24|7 from the comfort of your home.
Consult a General Physician For The Best Advice
Treatment Options
Since Mycoplasma lacks a cell wall, common antibiotics like penicillin won’t work. Instead, doctors prescribe:
- Macrolides (Azithromycin, Clarithromycin) – Commonly used for respiratory infections.
- Tetracyclines (Doxycycline) – Effective for both respiratory and genital infections.
- Fluoroquinolones (Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin) – Used in resistant cases.
Important: Always complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence.
Lifestyle and Home Care Tips
To recover faster and prevent reinfection:
For Respiratory Infections:
- Drink warm fluids (tea, soup) to soothe the throat.
- Use a humidifier to ease coughing.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Avoid smoking or exposure to pollutants.
For Genital/Urinary Infections:
- Practice safe sex (use condoms).
- Maintain proper hygiene.
- Stay hydrated to flush out bacteria.
- Avoid tight, nonbreathable underwear.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical help if:
- Symptoms persist beyond a week.
- You develop a high fever or difficulty breathing.
- There’s unusual genital discharge or pelvic pain.
Final Thoughts
Mycoplasma infections, though sometimes stubborn, are treatable with the right antibiotics and care. If you suspect an infection, don’t ignore the symptoms—early diagnosis leads to quicker recovery.
Need expert advice? Consult a specialist on Apollo 24|7 for personalized care and treatment options. Stay informed, stay healthy!
Consult a General Physician For The Best Advice
Consult a General Physician For The Best Advice
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
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Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
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VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Mijanur Rahaman Mondal
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3 Years • MBBS
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Dr Utsa Basu Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Santanu Mandal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
17 Years • MD (Physician), DNB (General Medicine)
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MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
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Dr. Karan Goel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
11 Years • MBBS, MD (Paediatrics)
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Little Steps Clinic, Kolkata
Consult a General Physician For The Best Advice
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Mijanur Rahaman Mondal
General Practitioner
3 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
Dr Utsa Basu Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Santanu Mandal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
17 Years • MD (Physician), DNB (General Medicine)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Karan Goel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
11 Years • MBBS, MD (Paediatrics)
Kolkata
Little Steps Clinic, Kolkata
