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Medically Reviewed

By

Chrysoula I. Liakou

MD, PhD, Internal Medicine Specialist and
Cancer Immunology Researcher.

What Is Chest Infection?

If you feel pain in your chest that spreads from your shoulders to the bottom of your rib cage, it's known as chest pain. While it's frequent and may not always signify something severe, seeing a doctor to determine the root cause is essential.

Chest pain can be caused by various factors, ranging from minor issues such as a pulled muscle or bruised ribs to severe medical conditions like lung problems or acid reflux. It is essential to have any chest pain checked out by a healthcare professional to ensure that any underlying conditions can be addressed.

Bronchitis causes swelling and irritation in the bronchi, leading to a persistent cough, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia is a more severe condition that can cause high fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue. In some cases, people may even cough up blood or experience sharp chest pain. Both conditions can make you feel exhausted and unwell.

Most chest infections can be managed at home with plenty of rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relief. However, it is essential to see a doctor if symptoms worsen or don't improve. People with weakened immune systems, young children, and the elderly are more at risk of severe complications from chest infections.

Chest Infection Symptoms

Depending on what is causing your chest pain, you may experience the following symptoms:

  • A tight, crushing sensation
  • A burning pain
  • Pain when breathing deeply
  • An aching sensation
  • Pain in the centre of the left or right side of your chest
  • A sharp pain that comes and goes
  • A dull, constant pain

 

Symptom

Description

Tight, crushing sensation

Pressure or a squeezing feeling in the chest

Burning pain

Often linked to acid reflux or heartburn

Pain when breathing deeply

May signal lung-related issues like pneumonia

Aching sensation

General discomfort in chest muscles or bones

Central chest pain

Pain in the left or right middle chest area

Sharp, intermittent pain

Comes and goes suddenly

Dull, constant pain

Persistent discomfort over time

 

.

Chest Infection Causes

Either viruses or bacteria cause chest infections, and they can make you feel very unwell. Common illnesses like bronchitis are usually caused by viruses, while bacteria often trigger pneumonia. These germs can spread quickly from person to person, so it’s essential to understand how chest infections are transmitted.

You can catch a chest infection by breathing in tiny droplets from someone coughing or sneezing nearby. These droplets carry the virus or bacteria, making it easy for the disease to spread. Touching a surface contaminated with germs, such as a doorknob or table, and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes can also make you sick.

Who Is At Risk?

Certain individuals are more susceptible to developing chest infections. These include the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and people with chronic health conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or diabetes. Smokers are also at higher risk because smoking damages the lungs, making them more vulnerable to infections. Additionally, people with weakened immune systems, whether due to illnesses like HIV or medications from an organ transplant, are more likely to get chest infections.

Cause

Explanation

Viral infections

Commonly caused by cold and flu viruses

Bacterial infections

Often leads to pneumonia or severe bronchitis

Weakened immune system

Higher risk inthe  elderly or those with chronic illness

Smoking

Damages lung tissue and lowers defence

Environmental factors

Pollution, dust, and poor air quality

Chest Infection Treatment

Treating a chest infection depends on whether a virus or bacteria cause it. If the disease is viral, antibiotics won’t help, so treatment focuses on relieving your symptoms until your body fights off the virus. However, suppose bacteria cause your chest infection. In that case, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, which you should always take as directed and finish the entire course, even if you start feeling better.

Here are some ways to ease the symptoms of a chest infection:

  • Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the infection, so get plenty of sleep and avoid overexertion.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or warm herbal tea, to keep yourself hydrated and help loosen mucus in your chest.
  • Over-the-counter medicine: Painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help reduce fever and relieve aches and pains. Decongestants or expectorants can also help clear mucus from your chest.
  • Use steam: Inhaling steam from a warm shower or a bowl of hot water can help ease a cough and open up your airways. You can add essential oils, such as eucalyptus, for extra relief.
  • Elevate your head: Sleeping with your head and chest slightly raised on pillows can prevent mucus from settling in your chest, making breathing easier.
  • Avoid irritants: Refrain from exposure to cigarette smoke, pollution, and other irritants that can exacerbate your symptoms.

If symptoms don’t improve or worsen in severe cases, you might need hospital care, where doctors can provide intravenous fluids and medication. Always see a doctor if you’re unsure about your symptoms or if you have a long-term health condition like asthma or COPD.

 

Treatment Type

How It Helps

Online doctor consultation

Quick access to diagnosis and prescriptions

Antibiotics (if bacterial)

Fights bacterial infections

Antiviral medication

Used for specific viral infections

Rest and hydration

Supports natural recovery

Pain relievers and fever reducers

Ease discomfort and lower temperature

Chest Infection Prevention

Preventing chest infections can help keep your lungs healthy, especially during cold and flu season. Here are some easy ways to reduce your risk:

  • Wash Your Hands Regularly: Use warm water and soap, especially before eating or touching your face, eyes, or mouth. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
  • Get Vaccinated: Consult with your doctor about receiving the seasonal flu vaccine. Since chest infections can develop after the flu, staying protected can make a big difference. Consider the pneumococcal vaccine, which helps prevent pneumonia.
  • Eat a Healthy Diet: Consuming a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps boost your immune system, making it easier for your body to fight infections.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking damages your lungs and makes you more likely to get chest infections. Stay away from secondhand smoke and other irritants, too.
  • Exercise Regularly: Staying active helps keep your immune system strong and your lungs in good shape.
  • Stay Away From Sick People: If someone around you has a cold or flu, keep your distance to avoid getting sick.
  • Cover Your Mouth and Nose: If you feel unwell, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away and wash your hands immediately.
  • Keep Surfaces Clean: Regularly disinfect high-touch areas, such as doorknobs, remote controls, and light switches, to reduce the spread of germs.

 

Prevention Method

Benefit

Wash hands regularly

Reduces the spread of germs

Quit smoking

Improves lung health

Get flu and pneumonia vaccines

Protects against common infections

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Boosts the immune system

Avoid close contact with sick individuals

Lowers the risk of catching an infection

 

Following these simple tips can lower your chances of getting a chest infection and keep your respiratory system healthy. Mobi Doctor provides expert advice and treatment options online if you're worried about a chest infection. Our caring professionals can guide you in managing symptoms and preventing diseases, all from the comfort of your home.

FAQ

Yes, you can get chest infection treatment online by booking a consultation with a qualified doctor. They can assess your symptoms, provide prescriptions if necessary, and give expert advice on managing recovery without the need to visit a clinic in person.

Online doctors diagnose chest infections by reviewing your medical history, assessing symptoms such as cough, fever, and chest tightness, and in some cases recommending further tests. This enables fast and reliable diagnosis of chest infections from the comfort of your own home.

If bacteria cause your chest infection, an online doctor can prescribe antibiotics after a thorough consultation. Viral chest infections typically do not require antibiotics, but you may be given other treatment options to relieve symptoms and accelerate recovery.

The main benefits include fast access to medical advice, prescriptions delivered to your pharmacy, and avoiding exposure to other illnesses in waiting rooms. Online chest infection treatment also saves time and provides care at your convenience.

Yes, the flu can sometimes develop into a chest infection, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic conditions, or those who smoke. Our doctors can help identify when flu symptoms worsen and provide timely treatment to prevent serious complications.

With Mobi Doctor, you can usually speak to a doctor the same day. After your consultation, treatment such as antibiotics, antivirals, or supportive care is prescribed promptly, helping you begin your recovery without unnecessary delays.

Along with medical treatment, staying hydrated, resting, and inhaling steam can ease chest congestion. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help. However, if symptoms are severe, it’s best to seek professional guidance for chest infection treatment online.

Yes, online chest infection treatment is safe when carried out by licensed doctors. Platforms like Mobi Doctor utilise secure technology to protect your data, and your prescriptions and treatment plans adhere to the same high standards as those in in-person consultations.


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