1.Bronchitis

It is the inflammation of the main airways that carry air to the lungs. It is caused by bacterial or viral infections and lasts for a few weeks.

Symptoms of Bronchitis:

• Sore throat
• Headache
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Mild fever
• Fatigue

2.Pneumonia

It is an inflammation of the lung tissue that affects the tiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged. It can be caused by a variety of pathogens, bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Mostly, it affected those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of Pneumonia:

• Pain while coughing and sneezing
• High fever
• Rapid heartbeat and shallow breathing.
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Causes of chest infections

There are several factors, including bacteria and viruses, which are the most common causes. Here are the key causes:

1.Bacterial infections

This infection can be typically more severe than viral infections. These include:

• Streptococcus pneumoniae is the leading cause of bacterial pneumonia.
• Hemophilus influenzae is a bacteria that causes respiratory infections and is common in individuals with chronic lung diseases.
• Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a bacteria that causes atypical pneumonia.
• Legionella pneumophila is a severe type of bacteria that is acquired through the inhalation of contaminated water droplets.

2.Viral infections

It is the leading cause of infections, especially during the winter. Some common viruses are:

• Influenza virus is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system and can lead to pneumonia or bronchitis.
• COVID-19 is also a contagious infection and can lead to pneumonia.

Symptoms

Chest infections can manifest in various ways. The most common symptoms are:

• Persistent cough
• Difficulty in breathing
• Chest pain or wheezing.
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue
• Weakness

Diagnosis

Diagnosing chest infections involves a combination of medical history and diagnostic tests. Here are the following methods:

• Medical history and physical analysis The doctors will ask about the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and underlying conditions Moreover, they perform physical evaluations, including listening to the patient’s breathing to check for any sign of infection.
• Chest X-rays or CT scans may help visually identify any abnormalities in the lungs.
• Blood tests are taken because they provide a complete blood count (CBC) and identify the presence of an infection.

Treatment

The treatment mainly depends on the underlying cause of the infection. Here are some common treatment approaches:

• Antibiotics are often prescribed by doctors to help eradicate the infection and prevent resistance.
• Antiviral medications: Doctors may prescribe these, especially for infections like viral fever, COVID-19, and influenza. These medicines help reduce the duration and severity of viral chest infections
• Cough medicines and pain relievers like cough suppressants and expectorants may help manage the persistent cough caused by chest infection.
• Proper hydration and adequate rest are essential for the body’s natural healing.

How to prevent chest infection

• Strengthen your immune system: Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep support immune function and reduce the risk of infection.
• Maintain proper hygiene: Regularly washing your hands prevents the spread of viruses and bacteria.
• Get vaccinated: Vaccines help reduce the risk of viral and bacterial infections.

When should I see a doctor?

You should consult a doctor if you experience:

• High fever
• Chest pain or discomfort
• High fever
• Coughing up thick, discoloured mucus

Sources:

1. Healthline: What is chest infection?, Types

Link: https://www.healthline.com/health/chest-infections

2. Carehospitals: Symptoms, Causes, treatment, and prevention

Link: https://www.carehospitals.com/symptoms/chest-infection