What is the difference between a cough and a chest infection?
Written by Dr Nelson Lau MBBS FRACGP, General Practitioner and Digital Health Specialist

Contents

A Cough
A Chest Infection
When Should You Consult Your Doctor?
- A cough that lasts for than 2 weeks.
- Chest pain or tightness.
- Fever that lingers for days.
- Difficulty breathing or experiencing shortness of breath.
- Coughing up blood or mucous.
- Wheezing, or hearing a whistling sound while breathing.
- Sensation of tightness or discomfort in the chest area.
- Difficulty swallowing or experiencing heartburn.
Options For Treating Coughs and Chest Infections
Coughs:
The treatment approach for a cough or chest infection depends on the cause. In the case of a mild cough, treatment may involve- rest
- staying hydrated
- and using over–the–counter medications to alleviate symptoms – cough expectorants are used for productive coughs with phlegm, whereas cough suppressants are used for dry coughs
Chest infections:
For chest infections where the condition is more serious, antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor to combat the infection. If the cough is related to a condition such as asthma, then specific inhaler medications may be prescribed. Aside from medication there are actions you can take to help alleviate your symptoms and promote respiratory health- Adequate fluid intake aids in thinning mucous making it easier to expel through coughing.
- Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and provide relief from congestion.
- Moreover, getting rest enables your body to recover from the infection efficiently.
Prevention
- Wear a mask when you have a persistent cough and associated symptoms.
- Frequent handwashing after coughing or sneezing.
- Avoiding contact with individuals who are unwell.
- Refraining from sharing utensils or personal items with individuals who are ill.
- Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- It’s advisable to stay at home if you’re feeling unwell, whether it’s due to a cough or a chest infection.
Feeling sick and unsure why? Speak with a GP online in 15 minutes.
Feeling sick and unsure why? Speak with a GP online in 15 minutes.
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
call 000.
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