Chest Infection Symptoms & Treatment

Medically reviewed by:

Dr Eddie Roche - Medical Officer

Updated: Aug 18, 2021

Next review: Aug 18, 2022

Chest infections are a very common condition, which usually occur after you’ve had a cold or the flu, especially during the winter months.

Most chest infections tend to only last a few days and will get better without medical treatment, but more serious cases can lead to further health problems.

Symptoms and common signs of a chest infection can include:

Coughing and wheezing
Shortness of breath
Coughing up phlegm or blood
Pain or tightness in the chest
Feeling dazed and confused
High temperature
Headaches
Feelings of tiredness
Muscle pain
Loss of appetite

Coughing usually lasts around seven to ten days, but could persist for up to three weeks.

At this point it would be advised to see a doctor for advice about your chest infection.

Chest infections occur when viruses or bacteria target the airways or lungs. Pneumonia and bronchitis are two of the most common types.

They can be caused by either viruses or bacteria, which are typically spread by inhaling particles of the virus or bacteria that someone else has coughed or sneezed out.

Chest infections can affect practically anyone, but you’re particularly at risk if your immune system is already compromised.

Most chest infections should clear up of their own accord within a few days. You should get plenty of rest and stay hydrated to give yourself the best chance of a fast recovery.

However, you should speak to a GP if your symptoms are particularly severe, you’re not getting better after about a week, or you're in an at-risk group, such as:

Young children and babies
The elderly
Pregnant women
Overweight people
Smokers
Those with a weakened immune system, particularly due to cancer treatment or a recent transplant
Sufferers of long-term health conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, kidney disease or cystic fibrosis

You should see a doctor as soon as possible if you are coughing up blood, or find parts of your skin or lips are developing a blue tinge. While these symptoms are rare, they suggest your chest infection is more severe and you may need medication.

As timeline for a chest infection is only a few days you should avoid taking cough medicines, since coughing can actually help clear phlegm from your lungs and help you get over the infection faster.

Since chest infections can take many forms, there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. For instance, antibiotics aren’t usually prescribed in cases of bronchitis (which is typically caused by a virus), while these are the preferred treatment for serious cases of pneumonia.

If you’re suffering from a chest infection that’s not getting any better - speak to a doctor today.

Our doctors can discuss your symptoms, diagnose what type of chest infection you have and recommend a course of treatment - including prescription medication if necessary.

If you're looking for a way to get treatment for your chest infection from the comfort of your own home, our online doctors are here to help.

Most chest infections are mild and get better on their own, but more serious cases can lead to further health problems.

You can get an appointment from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week on your smartphone, tablet or computer and get all the help you need.

Chest Infection

Dr Eddie Roche - Medical Officer

What is a chest infection?

Chest infection symptoms

Chest infection causes

Chest infection treatment

Should you take cough medicine for your chest infection?

Chest infection treatment online

Dr Eddie Roche - Medical Officer

What is a chest infection?

Chest infection symptoms

Chest infection causes

Chest infection treatment

Should you take cough medicine for your chest infection?

Chest infection treatment online

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