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.
You feel significantly worse or your symptoms are deteriorating rapidly.
High Temperature
You feel very unwell with a high fever.
You feel very unwell with a high fever.
Specific Signs
You are coughing up blood or feel confused or drowsy.
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).
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
For more detailed advice on symptoms, recovery times and self-care for chest infections, please visit the official NHS website.
Last reviewed: 10 July 2026
Next review due: 10 July 2029