We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. What is a chest infection? A chest infection is a type of respiratory infection that impacts the lower part of your respiratory tract. Your lower respiratory tract includes your windpipe, bronchi, and lungs. The two most common types of chest infections are bronchitis and pneumonia. Chest infections can range anywhere from mild to severe. The symptoms of a chest infection can include:
A chest infection can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. The exact cause will depend on the type of infection. For example, bronchitis is often caused by a virus, whereas most cases of pneumonia are bacterial in origin. You can catch a chest infection by inhaling the respiratory droplets that are generated when someone with an infection coughs or sneezes. That’s because the respiratory droplets carry the infection. Additionally, coming into contact with a surface that’s contaminated with the virus or bacteria, and then touching your mouth or face can also spread the infection. You may be at an increased risk for a chest infection if you:
In some cases, a chest infection, such as acute bronchitis, will go away on its own and you won’t have to see a doctor. A pharmacist may be able to help you by recommending over-the-counter (OTC) decongestant medications to help loosen any mucus in your chest, which will make it easier to cough up. You should always go to see a doctor for a chest infection if you:
In order to diagnose your condition, the doctor will evaluate your symptoms and perform a physical examination, during which they’ll use a stethoscope to listen to your heart and lungs as you breathe. The doctor may take a chest X-ray to determine the location and severity of your infection. They may also take a sputum or blood sample to find out what’s causing your infection. If bacteria are causing your chest infection, these tests can also help them decide which antibiotic to use. If your chest infection is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t be effective. Instead, your treatment will focus on easing your symptoms until you begin to get better. If you have a bacterial infection, you’ll be treated with antibiotics. In a mild case, you can take these at home in tablet form. If you have a severe bacterial chest infection, you may need to be treated with IV antibiotics in a hospital. Always take the full course of antibiotics, even if you begin to feel better. These home remedies may help ease the symptoms of your chest infection. Try these tips:
Most chest infection symptoms typically go away within 7 to 10 days, although a cough can last up to three weeks. See your doctor if your symptoms haven’t improved or have gotten worse in this time. You can help prevent chest infections by following the tips below:
Chest infections can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection in your lower respiratory tract. They can range from mild to severe. Many mild chest infections will resolve on their own in about a week’s time. A chest infection that’s caused by bacteria will need to be treated with a course of antibiotics. Severe or complicated chest infections may require treatment in a hospital. Many lower respiratory infections (LRTIs) are self-limited and resolve without the need for additional treatment. There is no universal treatment for all LRTIs, so if you do need treatment, your doctor will choose treatments that best address the symptoms you are experiencing. LifestyleIngest plenty of fluids, and get plenty of rest. Using a humidifier to breathe warm, moist air may provide relief. Also, be sure to avoid cigarette smoke and other pollutants, such as chemical fumes. MedicationsSince most LRTIs are viral, medications are generally not used in treatment. However, certain over-the-counter medicines may provide some relief from symptoms:
Other TreatmentsIn the case of serious LRTIs, treatment in a hospital may be necessary. Treatments for LRTIs in the hospital may include:
Medically Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD on December 23, 2020
Respiratory infections come in many forms. They can affect your throat, sinuses, lungs, or airways. They're common for people of all ages and aren’t usually serious. But if you get them often, it could be a sign you have another health issue. Doctors split them into two types: upper and lower respiratory infections. Upper respiratory infections affect your throat and sinuses. These include colds, sinus infections, and sore throats. Lower respiratory infections usually last longer and are more serious. These infections affect your airways and lungs. They include bronchitis and pneumonia. The flu can be either an upper or lower respiratory infection. You may get repeated infections because of things in your environment and lifestyle like: But sometimes, frequent respiratory infections arise from more serious problem. They include: Lung disease. People with asthma, cystic fibrosis (CF), or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are more likely to get respiratory infections. These infections can make the symptoms of these chronic conditions worse. Asthma is one of the most common lung diseases. It affects about 334 million people all over the world. COPD is widespread as well, affecting more than 200 million people. CF is less frequent and affects about 70,000 people globally. Structural issues. The structure of your body can make you more prone to respiratory infections. A deviated septum (in which one of your nasal passages is smaller), nasal polyps (growths in your nasal passages), and other blockages in your airways can lead to sinus infections. If you have lung cancer, a tumor can also cause a blockage that results in repeated respiratory infections. Another problem that can lead to an infection is aspiration. This happens when you breathe in food, liquid, or vomit. The substance gets into your lungs and may cause pneumonia. Secondary immune deficiency. This happens when your immune system is damaged by something that affects your body, like chemotherapy medications, bad burns, malnutrition, or HIV. A weakened immune system makes you more likely to get respiratory infections. Primary immunodeficiency. This is when you have genetic (inherited) defects that weaken your immune system. They include T-cell and B-cell deficiencies. They’re much less common than secondary immune deficiencies. People with primary immunodeficiency often get pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections. Most respiratory infections will clear up in 1-2 weeks with over-the-counter medicines, enough sleep, and plenty of water. If you frequently get infections and can’t pinpoint the cause, check in with your doctor. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if: |