A chest infection happens when germs infect the lower part of your lungs and airways, such as the bronchi and the windpipe. You can often treat these infections with medicine from your healthcare provider or with home remedies.
Many chest infections are light and can be treated without a prescription. But sometimes, these infections can be more serious and need extra treatment.
Common types of chest infections include bronchitis and pneumonia. These can often be managed with medications you can do at home. Additionally, there are steps you can take to assist prevent preventing these infections in the first place.
Symptoms
The signs of a chest infection can differ from one person to another, but there are common signs to watch for. Typically, you might experience a wet cough that produces phlegm. Wheezing is another common symptom, and you may notice that the mucus you cough up is green or yellow. Shortness of breath and chest pain are also frequent, along with a sharp sensation when inhaled.
In addition to these, a chest infection can cause a headache, often resulting from frequent coughing. Fever is another common symptom, and you might feel generally fatigued. Muscle pains and aches are also typical, contributing to overall discomfort.
Types
There are many kinds of chest infections, each with its own characteristics and causes.
Bronchitis is a common infection of the chest and occurs when the bronchi, the major airways to the lungs, become infected. Acute bronchitis is often caused by viruses such as those responsible for the flu or common cold. In some cases, bacteria can also lead to acute bronchitis.
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that primarily affects the airways and lungs. While TB is rare in the U.S. and difficult to catch, it can be serious or even fatal if left untreated. Most TB cases can be successfully treated with prompt and effective medical care.
Pneumonia is a condition that affects the lung’s airways, causing inflammation and swelling of the air sacs with pus or fluid. Pneumonia can be caused by various germs, but bacterial and viral pneumonia are the most common. It spreads when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or exhales particles that others then inhale, leading to infection in the airways.
Treatment
For most chest infections caused by viruses, like those from the common cold, prescription medications are usually not needed. Instead, healthcare providers often suggest using over-the-counter drugs, like ibuprofen, or cold and cough medicines, to help relieve symptoms.
If a healthcare provider finds that a specific bacterial or viral cause is behind the infection, they might suggest particular medications. Antibiotics can treat bacterial infections effectively, while antiviral medicines may be used for specific viral infections or for individuals with a higher chance of complications. High-risk groups include young, older people, and individuals getting chemotherapy.
In more severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. This could involve receiving fluids through an IV and antimicrobial treatments. Healthcare providers will check patients closely to manage and prevent severe complications from the infection.
Recovery Time
Chest infections can be painful and uncomfortable, but they usually get better on their own without needing medical intervention. Many individuals start feeling better within a few days.
Even after the infection is gone, you might still have some lingering signs, such as coughing and mucus.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, signs of acute bronchitis typically last less than 21 days. If your symptoms continue for more than 21 days, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider.
Prevention
Infections of the chest are common during the flu and cold season, particularly during cold weather that keeps individuals indoors. To decrease your risk of getting a chest infection, you can follow some simple prevention tips that also help avoid the flu and colds.
Start by washing your hands regularly to remove germs. It’s also important to sanitize public items like elevator buttons, doorknobs, and ATM keypads, as these can carry viruses. Avoid contact with individuals who are ill and remain home from school or work if you’re unwell to stop transmitting illness.
Getting a flu shot each year can also help protect you from influenza, which can lead to chest infections. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating a nutritious diet, getting quality sleep, and doing physical activities regularly can strengthen your immune system. Finally, avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, as these can weaken your lungs and make you more susceptible to infections.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Most common infections of the chest will improve on their own without medical treatment. However, if the infection is serious or if symptoms do not start to improve within 14 to 21 weeks, it may be time to see a healthcare provider.
You should also consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms: coughing up bloody mucus or blood, worsening symptoms over time, persistent shortness of breath that doesn’t improve, or a fever higher than 38ºC (100.4ºF).
Certain individuals are at higher risk for complications and should seek medical attention for any infection of the chest. This includes individuals aged 65, children under 5, pregnant women, those with weakened immune systems (like from HIV or chemotherapy), and individuals with chronic health conditions that affect the air passages.
When you see a healthcare provider, they may perform a physical exam and order tests to detect the kind of infection. This could include taking a sample of the mucus you are coughing up to determine the best intervention. Additional tests, like a chest X-ray, may also be ordered to provide more information for an accurate diagnosis.
Outlook
Infections of the chest are quite common and often follow a flu or cold. Typically, the body will eliminate the infection within a week.
However, some individuals may experience lingering signs, like mucus in the lungs, for some weeks even after the main infection has resolved.
If you have severe symptoms or if your symptoms persist for more than 2 to 3 weeks, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. They may perform tests to identify any other underlying causes and recommend appropriate medical interventions.
Summary
Chest infections, often following a flu or cold, usually resolve within a week without medical treatment. Symptoms may include a productive cough, wheezing, and chest pain. Most infections improve on their own, but lingering symptoms like mucus and coughing may persist. If symptoms are severe or last more than 2 to 3 weeks, seeing a health provider is important. High-risk groups, such as the elderly or those with weakened immune systems, should seek medical attention early. Healthcare providers may conduct tests to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatments.
