When should I seek help for a chest infection?

In many cases, you can care for yourself at home if you have a chest infection by getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated. However, it’s important to seek medical advice if:

• you feel very unwell, or your symptoms are severe

• your symptoms are not improving

• you feel confused, disorientated or drowsy

• you have chest pain or difficulty breathing

• you cough up blood or blood-stained phlegm

• your skin or lips develop a blue tinge (cyanosis)

• you’re pregnant

• you’re 65 or over

• you’re very overweight and have difficulty breathing

• you have a weakened immune system

• you have a long-term health condition

• you have a cough that has lasted more than 3 weeks