Chest Infection
Chest infections are a very common condition that usually occurs after you have had a cold or the flu, especially during the winter months.
Symptoms
Coughing and wheezing
Shortness of breath
Coughing up phlegm or blood
Feeling dazed and confused
Headaches
Feeling of tiredness
Muscle pain
Loss of appetite
Coughing can last around seven to ten days but could persist for up to three weeks. At this point, it would be advised to speak with an Ahmeys prescriber about your chest infection.
Treatment
Most chest infections should clear up on their own accord within a few days. It is important to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated to give yourself the best chance of a fast recovery.
Speak to one of our expert prescribers if your symptoms are not getting better after a week or you are in an at-risk group including:
- young children and babies
- the elderly
- pregnant
- overweight
- 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 seek medical advice as soon as possible if you are coughing up blood or find parts of your skin or lips developing a blue tinge.
While these symptoms are rare, they suggest your chest infection is more severe and you may need medication.
Causes
- Chest infections occur when viruses or bacteria target the airways or lungs. Pneumonia and bronchitis are two of the most common types.
- Chest infections can affect anyone but you’re particularly at risk if your immune system is already compromised.
Should you take cough medicine for your chest infection?
As the timeline for chest infections 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 your infection faster.
Ahmeys healthcare professionals can discuss your symptoms, diagnose what type of chest infection you have, and recommend a course of treatment.
