Updated: 11/13/23
If you’ve ever felt a little under the weather but can’t quite put your finger on why, it could be something as simple as a mycoplasma infection. These stealth microbes can cause a host of bothersome symptoms similar to those of colds and flu, making them difficult to detect and diagnose properly. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to boost your immune system so that if an infection does occur – which is possible for even the healthiest among us – your body is better to fight off ailments like mycoplasma infections. In this article, we share essential ingredients in our supplements that are effective at strengthening the immune system and increase resistance against these infectious agents. Read on for tips on what to look out for in order to prevent or reduce the severity of future infections!
What is Mycoplasma Infection?
Mycoplasma infection is caused by a type of bacteria, mycoplasma pneumoniae. It is often the cause of illnesses like pneumonia, bronchitis, and tracheitis. It spreads through contact with respiratory secretions from someone who has the infection. You can get it by breathing in droplets from a cough or sneeze, or by touching a surface that has experiences contamination with the bacteria and then touching your mouth or nose.
They are a genus of bacteria consisting of a number of different species. They are microscopic single-cell organisms in humans, animals, plants, insects and soil and researchers consider them the smallest type of cell. Mycoplasma do not have a cell wall and they can replicate on their own, but they cannot survive without a host. There are several different species within this class, but only certain species cause infections in humans.
Mycoplasma Bacteria that Cause Infections
Mycoplasma infection is a bacterial infection by one of several different species in the mycoplasma class. There are hundreds of different kinds of mycoplasma bacteria species. However, most of them are harmless and only a few can carry serious health risks. Some harmful mycoplasma bacteria are:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae
- Ureaplasma
- Mycoplasma genitalium
- Mycoplasma hominis
Symptoms of Mycoplasma Infections
Different mycoplasma bacteria species may cause different symptoms and complications. Some species may cause symptoms focused on the respiratory system and others may cause symptoms similar to a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Mycoplasma Pneumoniae
Infection from mycoplasma pneumoniae causes mild symptoms that may last a few weeks. The symptoms may appear one to two weeks after the patient contracts the infection and they often resemble a cold or the flu, including a sore throat, fatigue, fever, headaches and a cough that progresses over time. However, it may cause different symptoms in children such as wheezing, vomiting or diarrhea.
According to research, this bacteria species causes pneumonia in about 10 percent of patients. In addition to fever and fatigue, pneumonia also causes difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, chest pain, chills and a wet cough.
Finally, individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or COPD, may experience a worsening of their symptoms with a mycoplasma infection. This can lead to a severe decline in lung function and hospitalization.
Mycoplasma Genitalium
Unlike mycoplasma genitalium, this species is transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse. It causes inflammation in the male and female urinary and genital tracts and increases the risk for other STIs. In female patients, it causes cervicitis and urethritis that cause vaginal pain, pain during sex, painful and frequent urination and abdominal pain. It may also lead to infertility in some patients, if not treated properly. Patients may also experience abnormal vaginal bleeding or abnormal vaginal discharge. In men, urethritis can cause painful and frequent urination, penile discharge and pain during ejaculation and sexual intercourse. Both men and women can experience joint pain as well.
Mycoplasma Hominis
Mycoplasma hominis bacteria causes symptoms that often resemble other STIs, including gonorrhea and chlamydia. This condition often causes painful urination in both men and women because it mostly affects the urinary tract. However, in some cases the disease may be asymptomatic and patients may not show any signs at all.
When they do appear, both male and female patients may notice abnormal discharge with an unusual smell and a burning sensation during urination. However, female patients may experience additional symptoms such as vaginal itching and pain during sexual intercourse. In rare cases, it may cause respiratory complications and joint pain, especially in patients with compromised immune systems.
Ureaplasma
Ureaplasma is a bacteria that naturally lives in the genitals and in the urinary tract. The bacterium rarely causes infections because the body’s immune system keeps the bacteria in check and they are a natural part of the body’s natural bacterial flora. However, patients with compromised immune systems may become infected if the bacteria’s population grows out of control and the body cannot control it.
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of this infection, often lasting weeks after the other symptoms pass. Mycoplasma infections can affect the joints and muscles, causing stiffness and aches. In some cases, this may lead to more severe conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. With this infection affecting the lungs and respiratory tract, it’s common to experience symptoms similar to a chest cold or pneumonia. These symptoms can include a persistent cough, sore throat, congestion, and even breathing difficulties.
If the patient’s bacterial flora is thrown out of balance, it causes symptoms including pain, itching and discharge in the genitals. It may also cause pelvic pain, stomach pain, headaches, and skin rashes. In addition, researchers also associate ureaplasma infections with pregnancy complications like preterm labor and even miscarriage.
How to Diagnose Mycoplasma Infection
Diagnosis of Mycoplasma infections can be difficult, as they often present as common cold or flu symptoms. To get an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may order a blood test, throat swab, or urine test. These tests can detect the presence of antibodies or DNA from the bacteria. In some cases, a respiratory culture may be necessary to determine which bacteria is causing the infection.
Treatment for Mycoplasma Infections
Antibiotics
When it comes to treating mycoplasma infection, antibiotics are the go-to option. However, not all antibiotics are best to treat mycoplasma. Antibiotics like penicillin do not work, due to the absence of cell walls in these bacteria. The best option is to use macrolides such as azithromycin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin. These antibiotics kill mycoplasma by stopping protein synthesis within the bacteria, leading to their eventual death.
Additional Treatment Options
In addition to antibiotics, there are other treatments for mycoplasma infection. These include over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, which can help alleviate the symptoms such as fever, cough, and chest pain. Patients with more severe symptoms may require additional medical attention, such as oxygen therapy.
Healthy Lifestyle Practices
Mycoplasma pneumoniae causes a respiratory infection that spreads from patient to patient through coughing and sneezing. Adopting certain hygiene practices may minimize transmission such as washing hands and covering the mouth and nose before sneezing or coughing. There is no way to completely prevent the infection and it is possible to get an infection more than once so previous infection does not erase the risk. Patients may be immune for a short period of time, but it is not lifelong. However, a second infection may be more mild.
On the other hand, the other mycoplasma species produce symptoms similar to sexually transmitted infections. Patients should take caution to practice safe and protected sex to reduce the risk of infections. Infections can increase the risk of developing more infections, such as HIV/AIDS.
Supplements for Mycoplasma Infections
In addition to medical treatment and healthy lifestyle practices, patients may also benefit from adding natural supplements to their daily health regimen. Supplements may be able to boost the immune system and prevent disease. However, they are not a cure for mycoplasma infections or any other health condition. Always consult a doctor before taking any supplements to confirm the dosage and avoid any possible side effects.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to the body, and they can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut. They help to support gut health by removing harmful bacteria that may be causing the mycoplasma infection. Probiotics also strengthen the immune system’s response to infections, making it easier for the body to fight off symptoms.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is known for supporting bone health, but it also has potent immune-boosting properties. It can help improve the overall health of your respiratory system, which is essential when trying to fight off mycoplasma infections. Vitamin D can be found in the sunlight, but supplements like Vitamin D3 are also useful options.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is a powerful antimicrobial herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of infections, including mycoplasma infections. It contains carvacrol and thymol, two compounds that have been shown to have potent antimicrobial activity against mycoplasma. Add a few drops of oregano oil to a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply it topically to the affected area. You can also take oregano oil capsules orally, but be sure to follow the recommended dosage.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a compound in fruits and vegetables that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. It can help fight off infections, including mycoplasma, by reducing the severity of symptoms like inflammation and pain. Quercetin can be found in supplement form or in foods like onions, apples, and berries.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a popular herb that is often used to boost the immune system. It has also been shown to have antimicrobial properties that can help to fight mycoplasma infections. Echinacea can be taken in the form of a tea, tincture, or supplement. It is important to note that echinacea can interact with certain medications, so be sure to check with your doctor before taking it.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These fatty acids are essential for optimal health, and they help reduce inflammation in the body. Omega-3s can improve the body’s response to mycoplasma infections, reducing inflammation and the severity of symptoms. They can be found in foods like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds, but omega 3-6-9 supplements are also a useful option.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays an essential role in fortifying collagen, which strengthens the skin to fight infection. In addition, it is a strong antioxidant that helps protect the body from damage and disease. Vitamin C can also help strengthen the immune system to better fight off infections. This nutrient also plays an essential role in promoting wound healing. As a dietary supplement, the recommended dosage for vitamin C / ascorbic acid is 1,000 mg. Consult a doctor before taking this supplement to confirm the dosage and avoid potential side effects.
Cat’s Claw
Cat’s claw is a tropical vine that is native to South America. It has been around for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including infections. Cat’s claw has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to fight mycoplasma infections. Cat’s claw can be taken in the form of a tea, tincture, or supplement.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is a popular herb that is often used to treat infections. It has shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to fight mycoplasma infections. Goldenseal can be taken in the form of a tea, tincture, or supplement.
Broccoli Extract
Broccoli extract contains several different nutrients, including potassium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K. According to research, the extract may also minimize patients’ risks for bacterial infections and it may also fight inflammation in the body. As a dietary supplement, the recommended dosage for broccoli extract powder is between 250 and 500 mg. Consult a doctor before taking this supplement to confirm the dosage. It may cause side effects or interact with other medications.
Garlic Extract
Garlic is known for its aroma and taste, making it a common cooking ingredient. According to studies, it may even have medicinal health benefits. Garlic may promote immune health and prevent viral, fungal and bacterial infections. Research states it may be effective in treating infectious diseases from salmonella and E. coli bacteria thanks to a compound called allicin. The recommended dosage for garlic extract powder is 650 mg twice a day with meals. All patients should seek medical advice before taking garlic supplements because it may cause adverse reactions or interfere with medications.
The Bottom Line
Mycoplasma infections develop from one of several species in the mycoplasma bacteria genus. There are several different types of mycoplasma bacteria and most do not cause any problems. However, some species can cause infections, such as mycoplasma hominis, mycoplasma genitalium, ureaplasma and mycoplasma pneumoniae. They may cause different symptoms and affect different parts of the body. For example, mycoplasma pneumoniae is a respiratory infection that may develop into pneumonia, while mycoplasma genitalium affects the genitals.
Most often, physicians treat the condition with antibiotics. Patients may also try taking natural supplements to fight bacteria and strengthen the immune system. However, do not take any supplements without approval from a doctor because they may cause side effects or interact with medications. Supplements are not a cure for mycoplasma infections or any other health condition. Instead, they aim to benefit overall health.
These statements have no experience with an evaluation by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease