WHAT IS A CHEST INFECTION?

A chest infection is a type of respiratory infection that impacts the lower part of respiratory tract that includes the windpipe, bronchi, and lungs. Most chest infection symptoms typically go away within 07 to 10 days, although a cough can last up to 03 weeks.

Chest infection can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection and its  exact cause will depend on the type of infection. It can be contracted through inhalation of droplets from the coughing or sneezing of an infected person. It can also happen after coming in contact with a contaminated surface and then touching the mouth or eyes. 

Chest infections can range anywhere from mild to severe. Its two types are :

●     Bronchitis

●     Pneumonia

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A CHEST INFECTION?

●     wet or phlegmy chest

●     wheezing

●     yellow or green mucus in cough

●     shortness of breath

●     discomfort in chest

●     fever

●     headache

●     muscle aches and pains

●     tiredness or fatigue

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Diagnosis : Evaluation of symptoms, review of medical history and  physical examination, by a Doctor. Additionally chest X-ray maybe required to assess the severity and location of infection

Sputum or blood samples can be taken to check the cause of infection to determine the antibiotics.

Treatment: If the chest infection is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t be effective. Instead, the treatment will focus on easing the symptoms until a person begins getting better. In case, it is a bacterial infection, it’ll be treated with antibiotics.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

1. Severe or complicated chest infections may require treatment in a hospital.

2. Consult a doctor immediately if symptoms of chest infection are combined with the following 

1. Age over 65 years or under 5 years of age

2. Pregnancy

3. Other chronic health conditions

4. Blood in cough or mucous

5. Worsening fever or headache

6. Rapid breathing, shortness of breath and/or chest pain

7. Confusion, dizziness, disorientation

8. Coughing beyond 3-4 weeks

3. Chest infection symptoms can be managed at home by medication for fever, aches and decongestion medicines, resting and keeping hydrated, steam inhalation, warm green tea and honey for sore throat

4. Possible complications can include: pneumonia can result into sepsis, accumulation of fluid within the lungs, lung abscess, etc