Chest Infection

A chest infection happens when germs get into your lungs or the tubes that carry air to your lungs. Think of it like getting a cold, but in your chest instead of your nose and throat.

What causes chest infections?

Chest infections are usually caused by:

• Viruses - like the germs that cause colds and flu
• Bacteria - different types of germs that can be more serious

Most chest infections start after you've had a cold or flu that moves down into your chest.

What are the symptoms?

The main signs of a chest infection include:

• A cough that brings up green or yellow mucus (phlegm)
• Feeling out of breath or wheezing
• Pain or discomfort in your chest
• High temperature (fever)
• Headache
• Aching muscles all over
• Feeling very tired

These symptoms usually get better on their own within 7 to 10 days. However, your cough and mucus might last up to 3 weeks.

How can you help yourself feel better?

There are several things you can do at home:

Do:

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink lots of water - this helps make the mucus thinner and easier to cough up
• Sleep with extra pillows to raise your head - this makes breathing easier
• Take paracetamol for pain, headaches, and to bring down your temperature
• Try a hot drink made with lemon juice and honey for a sore throat

Don't:

• Let children breathe steam from hot water (risk of burns)
• Give aspirin to children under 16
• Smoke - this makes symptoms worse

When should you speak to your GP?

See your GP if you:

• Feel very unwell or your symptoms get worse
• Cough up blood or blood-stained mucus
• Have had a cough for more than 3 weeks
• Are pregnant
• Are over 65
• Have a weak immune system (for example, if you have diabetes or are having chemotherapy)
• Have a long-term health condition affecting your heart, lungs, or kidneys

Treatment from your GP

Your GP will decide what treatment you need based on what's causing your infection:

• Virus infections usually get better on their own. Antibiotics won't help because they don't work against viruses
• Bacterial infections might need antibiotics. If your GP prescribes antibiotics, take the full course even if you start feeling better

Sometimes your GP might need to do a blood test or test your mucus to find out what's causing your infection.

How to stop spreading chest infections

To protect others:

• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
• Wash your hands regularly
• Throw away used tissues straight away
• Stay at home if you have a high temperature or feel too unwell for normal activities

Preventing chest infections

If you keep getting chest infections, speak to your GP about:

• The annual flu vaccine
• The pneumonia vaccine (especially if you're over 65 or have long-term health conditions)
• Help to stop smoking
• Advice about cutting down on alcohol

Remember, most chest infections get better on their own, but don't hesitate to speak to your GP if you're worried about your symptoms.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.