how do i know if i have a chest infection

You may have a chest infection if you experience symptoms such as a persistent chesty cough that produces yellow or green phlegm, or blood; wheezing; breathlessness or rapid, shallow breathing; chest pain or tightness; a high temperature (fever); rapid heartbeat; and general infection symptoms like headache, fatigue, sweating, or loss of appetite. These symptoms often follow a cold or flu and can last from several days to a few weeks. If the cough is continuous or mucus is bloody, or if you have difficulty breathing, confusion, or high fever, medical advice should be sought immediately. Chest infections affect the lungs or airways and can be caused by viruses or bacteria, commonly spreading through coughs or sneezes from infected individuals. Certain groups, including young children, elderly individuals, smokers, or those with chronic conditions, are at higher risk of serious illness. For milder cases, rest, hydration, and symptom relief can be helpful, but persistent or severe symptoms require professional medical assessment.