When is chest congestion serious?


 

Chest congestion – when excessive mucus accumulates in the bronchi and lungs – is caused by acute infections such as a chest cold and bronchitis, and chronic conditions such as COPD, chronic bronchitis, asthma and cystic fibrosis. While some acute infections can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications and home remedies, other conditions require medical attention.

See a doctor when you – or your child – experience:

  • A fever of 38 ̊C or higher
  • Symptoms that persist for longer than 3 weeks
  • Flu-like symptoms that improve, then return with fever and a cough, or pain or pressure in the chest
  • Coughing up thick, greenish-yellow phlegm
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
  • Fainting
  • Swelling in your ankles, legs, or feet
  • Weight loss

Seek emergency medical care if you or your child experience:

  • Trouble breathing – shortness of breath, not being able to breathe fully, or feeling like you cannot get enough air
  • Chest pain, including chest pain that gets worse when you breathe, cough, or sneeze
  • Coughing up blood or blood-stained mucus
  • Choking
  • Low blood pressure
  • An upset stomach – nausea, pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • A racing or irregular heart rate

You should also see a doctor if:

  • You are pregnant.
  • You are over the age of 65.
  • Your immune system is weak, e.g., you’re living with diabetes or you’re having chemotherapy.
  • You have a long-term, chronic health condition, such as a lung, heart, or kidney condition.

Chest congestion can be caused by a variety of conditions, and can be serious if accompanied by other symptoms like fever or bloody mucus. If you are experiencing chest congestion, there are several treatments – medical and lifestyle changes – that can help alleviate your symptoms. However, if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.


 

 

 

References

  1. Fletcher, J. (2023). What to know about chest congestion. Medical News Today [Online]. Accessed on 13 June 2023. Available from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chest-congestion
  2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Cough – When to see a doctor. Mayo Clinic [Online]. Accessed on 13 June 2023. Available from https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/cough/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050846
  3. National Health Service. Chest Infection. NHS [Online] Accessed on 13 June 2023. Available from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chest-infection
  4. Rope, K. (2022). What Are the Complications of Pneumonia?. WebMD [Online]. Accessed on 13 June 2023. Available from https://www.webmd.com/lung/complications-pneumonia

Disclaimer

These articles are for information purposes only. It cannot replace the diagnosis of a healthcare provider. Pharma Dynamics gives no warranty as to the accuracy of the information contained in such articles and shall not, under any circumstances, be liable for any consequences which may be suffered as a result of a user’s reliance thereon.

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