Chest cold appointments

A chest cold - the common name for acute bronchitis - is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes (the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs). This inflammation can cause you to cough up thick, discolored mucus.

Acute bronchitis is generally caused by a viral infection, such as a common cold. Symptoms of a chest cold include:

• Frequent coughing
• Mucus production
• Wheezing
• Fever
• Difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Headaches and/ or body aches

Most cases of acute bronchitis clear up in 7-10 days. The infection is usually fairly mild and rarely requires medical attention. Even though chest colds are relatively easy to manage, they can be contagious if they have been caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Viral infections are especially common, and cannot be treated with antibiotic medication. Because of this, it is important that you avoid contact with other people and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of the infection spreading. Germs that cause chest colds can be spread through the air, or via surfaces such as door handles. To prevent infection, or mitigate the spread of infection, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and stay home from work and away from others when you’re sick.