When do i need antibiotics for a chest infection

A chest infection is an infection of the lungs or airways. The main types of chest infection are bronchitis and pneumonia. These infections are usually spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. This launches tiny droplets of fluid containing the virus or bacteria into the air, where they can be breathed in by others. The infections can also be spread to others if you cough or sneeze onto your hand, an object or a surface, and someone else shakes your hand or touches those surfaces before touching their mouth or nose.

Read more about the causes of bronchitis and the causes of pneumonia. 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. Avoid cough medicines, as there's little evidence they work, and coughing actually helps you clear the infection more quickly by getting rid of the phlegm from your lungs.

Antibiotics aren't recommended for many chest infections, because they only work if the infection is caused by bacteria, rather than a virus. Your GP will usually only prescribe antibiotics if they think you have pneumonia, or you're at risk of complications such as fluid building up around the lungs pleurisy.

If there's a flu outbreak in your local area and you're at risk of serious infection, your GP may also prescribe antiviral medication. Read more about treating bronchitis and treating pneumonia. Your GP should be able to diagnose you based on your symptoms and by listening to your chest using a stethoscope a medical instrument used to listen to the heart and lungs. In some cases, further tests — such as a chest X-ray , breathing tests and testing phlegm or blood samples — may be necessary. There are measures you can take to help reduce your risk of developing chest infections and stop them spreading to others.

If you smoke, one of the best things you can do to prevent a chest infection is to stop. Smoking damages your lungs and weakens your defences against infection. Read more information and advice about stopping smoking. Causes of chest infections The main causes include: A virus Bacteria Mycoplasma a special kind of bacteria.

Diagnosis of chest infections Your doctor may arrange some tests, which could include: Chest x-ray A sample of your phlegm Blood tests. Treatment for chest infections Most people with bronchitis can be treated at home and make a full recovery. Treatment options include: Your doctor will advise you about any medications you need to get over this attack. Some people need to be admitted to hospital for further treatment, particularly young children and the elderly who are at greater risk of serious complications.

Review with your local doctor may be needed within 48 hours, especially if you are not improving, and again in six weeks to make sure that you have made a full recovery. A chest x-ray may be needed at this time. Taking care of yourself at home If you have a bacterial chest infection, you should start to feel better 24 to 48 hours after starting on antibiotics.

Be guided by your doctor, but general self-care suggestions include: Take your medication as directed. Even if you feel better, finish the course of antibiotics. Drink plenty of fluids.

Rest for a few days. Prop yourself up on a couple of pillows at night — it will make it easier to sleep. Contact your local doctor if you have any concerns or questions. Go straight to your local doctor or the nearest hospital emergency department if you or your child have trouble breathing, have a high fever or feel worse. Vaccination is available Vaccines are available to reduce the risk of some types of chest infection. Give feedback about this page.

Was this page helpful? Yes No. View all lungs. Related information. Content disclaimer Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Our seven tips…. An expectorant is something that helps loosen mucus so you can cough it up. Learn about natural ways to treat your cough. Taking sick time isn't easy, but you don't want to spread your illness or infect your co-workers if you're contagious. But how do you determine when….

Treat symptoms of bronchitis at home with these 10 remedies, and learn about other treatments. If you have a very bad case of bronchitis, your doctor may prescribe an inhaler or nebulizer treatment to help open up your lungs. One of the most telltale symptoms of bronchitis is a nagging cough that may start out dry, but become productive as the infection progresses. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Identifying and Treating Chest Infections. Medically reviewed by Daniel Murrell, M. What is a chest infection?

Your lower respiratory tract includes your windpipe, bronchi, and lungs. What are the symptoms of a chest infection? What causes a chest infection? When to seek help from a healthcare provider. How to treat a chest infection. Home remedies for chest infection.