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
- 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
- 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
- National Health Service. Chest Infection. NHS [Online] Accessed on 13 June 2023. Available from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chest-infection
- 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