What Is Atypical Pneumonia?
6. How Is It Diagnosed?
Because the symptoms of walking pneumonia mimic other illnesses, the doctor will perform a number of tests to diagnose it. The first step is to take a health history and current health intake, asking about symptoms, timing and possible contact with others who have similar symptoms. The next step is a physical examination.
The doctor will take vitals, such as blood pressure, pulse and temperature, listen to the lungs and measure breathing rate. Blood oxygen levels may also be measured. If warranted, the doctor may order a chest x-ray or blood tests. An X-ray differentiates pneumonia from another condition, and the blood tests determine the type of bacteria involved.
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