Chest infections can be caused by a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They can also be caused by exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, pollution, and chemicals. The exact cause will depend on the type of infection.
Certain groups of people have a higher risk of developing serious chest infections. These may include:
- babies and very young children
- children with developmental problems
- people who are very overweight
- elderly people
- pregnant women
- people who smoke
- people with long-term health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- people with a weakened immune system – this could be due to a recent illness, a transplant, high-dose steroids, chemotherapy or a health condition, such as an undiagnosed HIV infection
You can catch a chest infection by inhaling the respiratory droplets that are generated when someone with an infection coughs or sneezes. That’s because the respiratory droplets carry the infection.
Additionally, coming into contact with a surface that’s contaminated with the virus or bacteria, and then touching your mouth or face can also spread the infection.
There are several types of infections that can affect the chest, including: For example, bronchitis is often caused by a virus, whereas most cases of pneumonia are bacterial in origin. These and a few others are discussed below.
- Bronchitis: an infection of the bronchial tubes, which can cause a productive cough and difficulty breathing.
- Pneumonia: an infection of the lungs, which can cause fever, chills, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
- Tuberculosis (TB): a bacterial infection that can affect the lungs and other parts of the body.
- Viral infections such as the flu or the common cold can also cause chest infections.
It is important to see a doctor if you have symptoms of chest infection and especially if your symptoms are severe or getting worse. The treatment will depend on the cause of the infection, but may include antibiotics, antiviral medication, cough medicine and bed rest.