Key information
- Viral vs. Bacterial: Over 90% of chest infections are caused by viruses, not bacteria.
- Why Antibiotics Often Fail: Antibiotics are designed to treat bacterial infections. They do not work on viruses and will not help you recover faster from a viral chest infection.
- Antibiotic Resistance: Using antibiotics when they aren’t needed can contribute to antibiotic resistance, reducing their effectiveness for everyone in the future.
- Best Treatment: For most people, the most effective treatment is rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter painkillers if needed.
What happens next?
If you are suffering from a standard chest infection, please allow time for your immune system to fight the virus. However, if you are concerned about your symptoms or they are not improving as expected, we are here to help assess your condition.
When to contact us
While most chest infections resolve on their own, please contact us immediately or use our online service if you notice any of the following “Red Flags”:
- Worsening Symptoms: You feel significantly worse or your symptoms are deteriorating rapidly.
- High Temperature: You feel very unwell with a high fever.
- Specific Signs: You are coughing up blood or feel confused or drowsy.
- Existing Conditions: You have a long-term health condition such as heart disease or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
Note: For severe difficulty breathing or life-threatening emergencies, always call 999.
Further information
Treating Chest Infections at Home
Chest Infections: Signs to Watch For
For more detailed advice on symptoms, recovery times, and self-care for chest infections, please visit the official NHS website.
Learn more about chest infections