Signs of Chest Congestion

Chest congestion is an uncomfortable and often painful experience and is usually a symptom of infection. Chest infections often develop during the winter months and can develop at the end of a flu. The symptoms of chest congestion make it difficult to breathe and sleeping patterns are often disturbed. It generally takes approximately two weeks before a full recovery is made.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of chest congestion are a tight feeling in the chest that may be accompanied by pain or wheezing. The need to cough is prominent and phlegm is often coughed out of the lungs. Breathing becomes very difficult when the chest is congested and swallowing may also be hard to do. When a deep breath is taken, sound often gurgles and emanates from within the lungs and this can often be felt as a pain or a tickle followed by coughing.

Signs

• Chest congestion is often accompanied by a variety of signs. Coughing that produces the expulsion of phlegm from the lungs is the clearest sign of chest congestion but other signs may also be seen. A fever is a sign of chest congestion, where the congestion is caused by infection. Other signs include the swelling of the tongue, a general fatigue and labored breathing.

Causes

• The most common cause of chest congestion is infection. Infection can start in the lungs during a cold or flu. Bronchitis often develops toward the end of a flu and chest congestion can become quite painful and uncomfortable. If the congestion isn't relieved within two weeks, it may become a more serious problem, or the congestion itself may be a sign of something more serious. It is important to see a health care practitioner to be tested and proper medications prescribed.

Treatment

• The most common treatment for chest infection is drinking plenty of water and resting as much as possible. Many times the infection will pass, but occasionally antibiotics may be necessary. Cough mixtures and pain killers will help to ease the discomfort associated with chest congestion. Rubbing peppermint or eucalyptus oil on the chest will also help to clear congestion.

Prevention

• A healthy diet is always a wise way of preventing illness. Keeping your immunity strong by incorporating multivitamins and vitamin C is also helpful. Drink plenty of water daily to eliminate toxic build-up in the body. Eating fish and incorporating other Omega-3 rich foods such as almonds and flax seeds are also ways of keeping your immunity strong. Wash your hands often during winter months and avoid touching your face to prevent the spread of the flu virus. The flu can be spread through contact with any object held by an infected person. When you touch the object and then touch your face, you can contract the virus.