Chest Infection Symptoms: Signs, Causes & Treatment

Written by Dr Simon Khela

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Chest infections are a common reason people visit a GP in the UK. According to the NHS, they affect the large airways or lungs and most people recover with rest and self-care, though some cases require medical assessment. This guide explains what symptoms to look out for, the difference between viral and bacterial infections, and when it is worth speaking to a doctor.

Contents

·      What is a chest infection?

·      Symptoms of a chest infection in adults

·      Symptoms of a chest infection in babies and children

·      What does a chest infection feel like?

·      Viral vs bacterial chest infection

·      How long does a chest infection last?

·      How to manage a chest infection at home

·      When to speak to a GP

·      Is pneumonia a chest infection?

·      Can chest infections be prevented?

·      Frequently asked questions

What is a chest infection?

According to the NHS, a chest infection is an infection of the lungs or large airways. There are two main types:

·      Acute bronchitis: an infection of the airways (bronchial tubes), usually caused by a virus

·      Pneumonia: an infection of the lung tissue itself, which can be viral or bacterial

Symptoms often develop following a cold or flu. If you are unsure which type of infection you have, a GP can assess your symptoms and advise on the appropriate next steps.

What are the symptoms of a chest infection?

The following are common signs of a chest infection. Not everyone will experience all of these, and symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity.

Chest infection symptoms in adults

Common symptoms include:

·      A chesty cough, which may produce yellow or green mucus

·      Breathlessness or wheezing

·      Chest discomfort or tightness

·      A high temperature, chills and headaches

·      Aching muscles and unusual tiredness

·      Loss of appetite or a general feeling of being unwell

Green or yellow mucus does not necessarily mean antibiotics are needed. Older adults may sometimes show different signs, for example confusion or a sudden decline in general wellbeing rather than a classic cough and fever.

Symptoms of a chest infection in babies and children

Look out for the following in babies and young children:

·      Rapid or noisy breathing

·      Wheezing

·      Poor feeding or fewer wet nappies

·      Irritability or unusual drowsiness

·      Nostril flaring, grunting or the skin pulling in beneath the ribs when breathing (signs of increased breathing effort)

In older children, a persistent cough, high temperature and reluctance to eat or drink are commonly reported. The NHS recommends seeking urgent medical attention for any baby under three months with a temperature of 38°C or above.

If you are concerned about a child’s breathing or general condition, speak to a GP or contact NHS 111.

What does a chest infection feel like?

People who have had a chest infection often describe a heavy or tight feeling in the chest, along with a rattling or productive cough. Breathing may take more effort than it would with a common cold. Fatigue is often reported as more pronounced than expected, and some people describe aching throughout the body, sweating and episodes of fever.

These are general descriptions based on commonly reported experiences and should not be used for self-diagnosis. If your symptoms are causing concern, a GP is the right person to assess them.

Viral vs bacterial chest infection

According to the NHS, chest infections can be caused by viruses or bacteria, and antibiotics do not work for viral infections. Bacterial infections may need a different approach. The colour of mucus or the presence of a fever alone cannot reliably tell you whether an infection is viral or bacterial. A GP assessment is needed to determine this.

The table below summarises some commonly reported differences, but these are general patterns only and not a diagnostic guide.

A viral chest infection is the most frequently reported type. NICE guidance (NG120) advises that antibiotics are not routinely recommended for acute bronchitis in otherwise healthy adults.

How long does a chest infection last?

The NHS states that most people with a chest infection start to feel better within 7 to 10 days. A cough, however, can persist for up to three weeks. Recovery time varies depending on:

·      Whether the infection is viral or bacterial

·      The person’s age and underlying health

·      The severity of the infection

Pneumonia typically takes longer to recover from than acute bronchitis. The NHS advises speaking to a GP if symptoms have not started to improve after three weeks, or if they worsen at any point.

How to manage a chest infection at home

The NHS recommends the following self-care measures for mild chest infections:

1.      Rest as much as needed and allow time for recovery

2.      Stay hydrated: drink plenty of fluids

3.      Avoid smoking or vaping, which can irritate the airways

4.      Use over-the-counter remedies: paracetamol or ibuprofen may help with pain or fever if suitable for you. Check with a pharmacist if you are unsure.

5.      Try honey in a warm drink for cough relief. The NHS advises never giving honey to a child under one year of age.

The NHS is clear that antibiotics are not routinely given for chest infections caused by viruses. If a GP determines that antibiotics are clinically appropriate, they will advise accordingly. Where a prescription is required following a clinical consultation, private prescriptions may be available at Private Medical Clinic.

When should you speak to a GP?

Contact a GP or NHS 111

The NHS advises seeking prompt medical advice if you:

·      Feel very unwell or your symptoms are getting worse rather than better

·      Have not improved after three weeks

·      Develop worsening breathlessness or pain when breathing

·      Have a persistent or worsening fever

Earlier GP review is advised by the NHS for those who are pregnant, aged over 65, immunosuppressed or living with heart or lung conditions. Children who are not feeding well, appear dehydrated or are breathing rapidly should also be assessed promptly.

For non-emergency concerns, a private GP appointment can provide an assessment without an NHS wait. Where an in-person visit is difficult, GP home visits may be available where clinically appropriate.

Call 999

The NHS advises calling 999 immediately for:

·      Struggling to breathe: choking, gasping and unable to speak

·      Pale, blue, grey or blotchy skin, lips or tongue

·      Coughing up blood

·      Suddenly feeling confused, for example not knowing where you are

In babies, call 999 if you cannot wake your baby or they feel floppy. Private GP services are not a substitute for emergency care.

Is pneumonia a chest infection?

Yes. According to the NHS and CDC, pneumonia is a type of chest infection affecting the lung tissue itself. It can be viral or bacterial, and symptoms may include fever, cough, breathlessness and chest pain. The NHS advises that pneumonia needs medical assessment, and you may be sent for a chest X-ray and blood tests to check for other conditions.

Pneumonia is generally more serious than acute bronchitis and recovery typically takes longer. If you suspect pneumonia, speak to a GP promptly.

Can chest infections be prevented?

The NHS recommends several steps that may help reduce the risk of respiratory infections:

·      Wash hands regularly and avoid touching the face

·      Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing

·      Follow NHS guidance on vaccinations recommended for your age or health conditions

Annual flu vaccination is recommended by the NHS for many groups. Private flu vaccination is available at Private Medical Clinic. Speak to a GP about which vaccinations may be appropriate for you.

Conclusion

According to the NHS, most chest infections improve on their own with rest and self-care. However, worsening symptoms, difficulty breathing, or a cough that has lasted more than three weeks are all reasons to speak to a doctor. If you would like an assessment without an NHS wait, online GP appointments and in-clinic consultations are available at Private Medical Clinic. Same-day appointments available. In an emergency, call 999.

Frequently asked questions