Chest infection
Chest infections are common, especially after a cold or flu during autumn and winter. Many chest infections are mild and will get better within a few days or weeks.
You won't usually need to see your GP, unless your symptoms suggest you have a more serious infection (see below).
Signs and symptoms of a chest infection
The main symptoms of a chest infection can include:
- a persistent cough
- coughing up yellow or green phlegm (thick mucus), or coughing up blood
- breathlessness or rapid and shallow breathing
- wheezing
- a high temperature (fever)
- a rapid heartbeat
- chest pain or tightness
- feeling confused and disorientated
You may also experience more general symptoms of an infection, such as a headache, fatigue, sweating, loss of appetite, or joint and muscle pain.
Caring for your symptoms at home
Many chest infections aren't serious and get better within a few days or weeks. You won't usually need to see your GP unless your symptoms suggest you have a more serious infection (see below).