Legionnaires’ disease symptoms often mimic the flu at first, but can rapidly escalate to a life-threatening form of pneumonia. Early signs include high fever, muscle aches, and headache, followed by more serious symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea, and confusion.
These symptoms typically appear 2 to 10 days after exposure to Legionella bacteria, usually through contaminated water droplets in places like hotels, hospitals, or cooling towers. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial for recovery.
Early Legionnaires’ Disease Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Before pneumonia sets in, Legionnaires’ disease typically begins with subtle flu-like symptoms, such as:
- Fever above 104°F (40°C)
- Severe headache
- Muscle pain or stiffness
- Chills and fatigue
These symptoms often appear within the first few days after exposure and are easy to mistake for the common flu, especially in the early stages.
Advanced Symptoms of Legionnaires’ Disease That Require Immediate Attention
As the infection spreads to the lungs and beyond, more severe pneumonia-like symptoms can develop, including:
- Persistent cough, sometimes producing mucus or blood
- Difficulty breathing or chest tightness
- Sharp chest pain during breathing
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Mental confusion or disorientation
These symptoms can escalate quickly, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems.
Not Just the Lungs: Gastrointestinal & Neurological Symptoms
Unlike many forms of pneumonia, Legionnaires’ disease symptoms often involve other body systems:
- Abdominal pain and diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Neurological changes, such as confusion, slurred speech, or coordination issues
These additional signs can help differentiate Legionnaires’ disease from other respiratory infections and should raise a red flag for both patients and healthcare providers.
Who’s at High Risk for Severe Legionnaires’ Disease Symptoms?
Certain groups are significantly more susceptible to severe Legionnaires’ disease symptoms, including:
- Adults over age 50
- Current or former smokers
- People with chronic lung conditions like COPD or emphysema
- Those with compromised immune systems (due to cancer, HIV, or medications)
- Recent surgery patients or those in long-term care facilities
What Is Pontiac Fever and How Is It Different?
While caused by the same Legionella bacteria, Pontiac fever is a milder, non-pneumonia illness that resolves on its own. Symptoms resemble the flu:
- Mild fever
- Headache and chills
- Muscle aches and fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
Pontiac fever does not affect the lungs and typically clears up within a few days without medical treatment.
When to Seek Emergency Care for Legionnaires’ Disease
You should contact your doctor immediately or go to the ER if you experience:
- A high fever (104°F or more)
- Trouble breathing or chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Neurological symptoms, such as confusion or speech difficulties
If you’ve been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease linked to a hotel, hospital, apartment, or workplace, consider speaking with experienced Legionnaires’ disease lawyers. They can help you understand your rights and whether you may be entitled to compensation due to negligence. Your health comes first, but don’t overlook your legal options.
