Bg pattern
This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

A chest infection is an infection of the lungs or large airways. Some chest infections are mild and clear up on their own, but others can be severe and life threatening.

Symptoms of a chest infection

Chest infections often follow colds or flu.

The main symptoms are:

  • a chesty cough – you may cough up green or yellow mucus
  • wheezing and shortness of breath
  • chest pain or discomfort
  • a high temperature
  • a headache
  • aching muscles
  • tiredness

These symptoms can be unpleasant, but they usually get better on their own in about 7 to 10 days.

The cough and mucus can last up to 3 weeks.

How to treat a chest infection yourself

If you have a chest infection, there are things you can do to ease the symptoms.

Do

  • get plenty of rest

  • drink lots of water to loosen the mucus and make it easier to cough up

  • raise your head up while sleeping using extra pillows to make breathing easier and clear your chest of mucus

  • use painkillers to bring down a high temperature and ease headaches and muscle pain

  • drink a hot lemon and honey drink to relieve a sore throat

Don’t

  • do not let children breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water because of the risk of scalding

  • do not give aspirin to children under 16

  • do not smoke – it can make your symptoms worse

How to make a hot lemon and honey drink

  1. Squeeze half a lemon into a mug of boiled water
  2. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey
  3. Drink while still warm

Do not give hot drinks to small children. Do not give honey to children under 12 months old.

Consult with a doctor about Chest infection

Consult with a doctor about Chest infection

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

A pharmacist can help with a chest infection

A pharmacist can recommend cough medicines to loosen the mucus in your lungs. This will make the mucus easier to cough up and help clear the infection from your lungs.

Cough medicines are not suitable for children under 6 years old.

See a GP if:

You have a chest infection and:

  • you feel very unwell or your symptoms get worse
  • you cough up blood or blood-stained mucus
  • you've had a cough for more than 3 weeks
  • you're pregnant
  • you're over 65
  • your immune system is weak – for example, you have a condition like diabetes or you're having chemotherapy
  • you have a long-term health condition, such as a heart, lung or kidney condition

You may have pneumonia if your symptoms are severe.

Treatment from a GP for a chest infection

Treatment for a chest infection will depend on the cause.

A chest infection will either be caused by:

  • a virus (like viral bronchitis) – this usually clears up by itself after a few weeks and antibiotics will not help
  • bacteria (like pneumonia) – a GP may prescribe antibiotics (make sure you complete the whole course as advised by the GP, even if you start to feel better)

Antibiotics are only used to treat bacterial chest infections. They're not used for treating viral chest infections, like flu or viral bronchitis. This is because antibiotics do not work for viral infections.

You may need a blood test or a sample of your mucus may need to be tested to see what's causing your chest infection.

How to prevent chest infections

How to avoid spreading chest infections

To avoid passing a chest infection on to others:

  • cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
  • wash your hands regularly
  • throw away used tissues immediately

Try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to do your normal activities.

How to avoid getting a chest infection

If you keep getting chest infections or you're at risk of getting one (for example, because you're over 65 or have a serious long-term health condition):

  • ask a GP about the annual flu vaccine
  • ask if you should have the pneumococcal vaccine – this helps prevent pneumonia
  • try to quit smoking if you smoke
  • cut down on how much alcohol you drink

Online doctors for Chest infection

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Chest infection with a doctor online.

0.0 (11)
Doctor

Rita Isabel Calero Garcia

General medicine 2 years exp.

Dr. Rita Isabel Calero Garcia is a physician with extensive experience in emergency medical care, general medicine, and healthcare assistance in various clinical and out-of-hospital settings.

She currently works as a physician at the Canary Islands Emergency Service (Servicio de Urgencias Canario – SUC), where she is responsible for the assessment and care of patients in medical emergency situations, performing the initial diagnosis, patient stabilization, and coordination with hospital services when necessary.

She has also developed her professional activity within the Primary Care Management Service, providing consultations in general medicine. In this setting she is responsible for patient follow-up, management of acute and chronic conditions, as well as health promotion and disease prevention.

She has also worked as a physician in a mobile ICU unit, providing medical assistance in out-of-hospital emergencies, treating critical patients and participating in medicalized patient transport.

In addition, she has collaborated with the Red Cross, participating in healthcare support units, providing medical assistance at events and supporting emergency interventions.

Furthermore, she has provided medical services in the private sector with Salvaser, conducting clinical assessments of patients and providing healthcare services within private medical services.

0.0 (0)
Doctor

Chikeluo Okeke

General medicine 4 years exp.

Dr Chikeluo Okeke is an internal medicine doctor with extensive international clinical experience. Originally from Nigeria, he has worked across multiple European healthcare systems and currently practises in Sweden. This professional path has given him a strong understanding of different medical approaches and the ability to work effectively with patients from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Dr Okeke focuses on general internal medicine and adult primary care, combining clinical accuracy with careful attention to lifestyle, personal context, and everyday health concerns. His consultations are particularly well suited for people who seek medical advice online, live abroad, or need clear guidance without unnecessary complexity.

He provides online consultations covering symptom assessment, prevention, and long-term management of chronic conditions, helping patients understand what is happening and decide on appropriate next steps.

Common reasons for consultation:

  • General internal medicine concerns and initial health assessment.
  • Acute symptoms such as fever, cough, infections, pain, or weakness.
  • Chronic conditions and treatment adjustment.
  • Blood pressure issues, fatigue, metabolic concerns.
  • Preventive consultations and routine check-ups.
  • Interpretation of laboratory results and medical reports.
  • Medical advice for patients receiving care online.

Dr Okeke is known for his clear communication, calm approach, and cultural awareness. He listens carefully, explains medical decisions in a structured way, and supports patients in making informed choices about their health.

Online consultations with Dr Chikeluo Okeke offer reliable internal medicine care without geographic limitations, focused on medical relevance, clarity, and patient comfort.

5.0 (195)
Doctor

Yevgen Yakovenko

General surgery 12 years exp.

Dr. Yevgen Yakovenko is a licensed surgeon and general practitioner in Spain and Germany. He specialises in general, paediatric, and oncological surgery, internal medicine, and pain management. He offers online consultations for adults and children, combining surgical precision with therapeutic support. Dr Yakovenko works with patients across different countries and provides care in Ukrainian, Russian, English, and Spanish.

Areas of medical expertise:

  • Acute and chronic pain: headaches, muscle and joint pain, back pain, abdominal pain, postoperative pain. Identifying the cause, selecting treatment, and creating a care plan.
  • Internal medicine: heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, urinary system. Management of chronic conditions, symptom control, second opinions.
  • Pre- and postoperative care: risk assessment, decision-making support, follow-up after surgery, rehabilitation strategies.
  • General and paediatric surgery: hernias, appendicitis, congenital conditions, both planned and urgent surgeries.
  • Injuries and trauma: bruises, fractures, sprains, soft tissue damage, wound care, dressing, referral when in-person care is required.
  • Oncological surgery: diagnosis review, treatment planning, and long-term follow-up.
  • Obesity treatment and weight management: a medical approach to weight loss, including assessment of underlying causes, evaluation of comorbidities, development of a personalised plan (nutrition, physical activity, pharmacotherapy if needed), and ongoing progress monitoring.
  • Imaging interpretation: analysis of ultrasound, CT, MRI, and X-ray results, surgical planning based on imaging data.
  • Second opinions and medical navigation: clarifying diagnoses, reviewing current treatment plans, helping patients choose the best course of action.

Experience and qualifications:

  • 12+ years of clinical experience in university hospitals in Germany and Spain.
  • International education: Ukraine – Germany – Spain.
  • Member of the German Society of Surgeons (BDC).
  • Certified in radiological diagnostics and robotic surgery.
  • Active participant in international medical conferences and research.

Dr Yakovenko explains complex topics in a clear, accessible way. He works collaboratively with patients to analyse health issues and make evidence-based decisions. His approach is grounded in clinical excellence, scientific accuracy, and respect for each individual.

If you are unsure about a diagnosis, preparing for surgery, or want to discuss your test results – Dr Yakovenko will help you evaluate your options and move forward with confidence.

0.0 (17)
Doctor

Daniel Cichi

Family medicine 24 years exp.

Dr Daniel Cichi is a family medicine doctor with over 20 years of clinical experience. He provides online consultations for adults, supporting patients with acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and everyday health concerns that require timely medical guidance. His background includes work in emergency care, ambulance services, and family medicine, which allows him to assess symptoms quickly, identify warning signs, and help patients choose the safest next steps – whether that means home care, treatment adjustment, or in-person evaluation. Patients commonly consult Dr Daniel Cichi for: 

  • acute symptoms: fever, infections, flu-like illness, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath;
  • chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, and blood pressure concerns;
  • digestive problems: abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, reflux;
  • sexually transmitted infections, erectile dysfunction;
  • muscle, joint, and back pain, minor injuries, post-traumatic symptoms;
  • chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, weight loss, hair loss;
  • review and interpretation of lab tests, imaging reports, and medical documents;
  • medication review and treatment adjustment;
  • medical advice while travelling or living abroad;
  • second opinions and guidance on whether in-person care is needed.

Dr Cichi’s consultations are structured and practical. He focuses on clear explanations, risk assessment, and actionable recommendations, helping patients understand their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health.

5.0 (54)
Doctor

Anna Biriukova

General medicine 6 years exp.

Dr Anna Biriukova is an internal medicine doctor with clinical experience in cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology. She provides online consultations for adults, offering expert medical support for heart health, hormonal balance, digestive issues, and general internal medicine.

Cardiology – Diagnosis and treatment of:

  • High blood pressure, blood pressure fluctuations, and cardiovascular risk prevention.
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, arrhythmias (tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitations).
  • Leg swelling, chronic fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance.
  • EKG interpretation, lipid profile evaluation, cardiovascular risk assessment (heart attack, stroke).
  • Post-COVID-19 cardiac monitoring and care.
Endocrinology – Diabetes, thyroid, metabolism:
  • Diagnosis and management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and prediabetes.
  • Individual treatment plans including oral medications and insulin therapy.
  • GLP-1 therapy– modern pharmacological treatment for weight management and diabetes control, including drug selection, monitoring, and safety follow-up.
  • Thyroid disorders – hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroid diseases (Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease).
  • Metabolic syndrome – obesity, lipid disorders, insulin resistance.
Gastroenterology – Digestive health:
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).
  • Stomach and intestinal conditions: gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion.
  • Management of chronic digestive disorders and interpretation of tests (endoscopy, ultrasound, labs).
General internal medicine and preventive care:
  • Respiratory infections – cough, colds, bronchitis.
  • Lab test analysis, therapy adjustments, medication management.
  • Adult vaccinations – planning, contraindications assessment.
  • Cancer prevention – screening strategies and risk assessment.
  • Holistic approach – symptom relief, complication prevention, and quality of life improvement.
Dr Biriukova combines internal medicine with specialist insight, offering clear explanations, personalised treatment plans, and comprehensive care tailored to each patient.
5.0 (79)
Doctor

Lina Travkina

Family medicine 13 years exp.

Dr. Lina Travkina is a licensed family and preventive medicine doctor based in Italy. She provides online consultations for adults and children, supporting patients across all stages of care – from acute symptom management to long-term health monitoring and prevention.

Areas of medical care include:

  • Respiratory conditions: colds, flu, acute and chronic bronchitis, mild to moderate pneumonia, bronchial asthma.
  • ENT and eye conditions: sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, otitis, infectious and allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Digestive issues: gastritis, acid reflux (GERD), IBS, dyspepsia, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, functional bowel symptoms, intestinal infections.
  • Urological and infectious diseases: acute and recurrent cystitis, bladder and kidney infections, prevention of recurrent UTIs, asymptomatic bacteriuria.
  • Chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, metabolic syndrome, thyroid disorders, excess weight.
  • Neurological and general symptoms: headache, migraine, dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, anxiety, asthenia.
  • Chronic pain support: back, neck, joint, and muscle pain, tension syndromes, pain associated with osteochondrosis and chronic conditions.

Additional care areas:

  • Preventive consultations and check-up planning.
  • Medical advice and follow-up consultations.
  • Test interpretation and diagnostic guidance.
  • Structured support for undiagnosed complaints.
  • Second opinion on diagnoses and treatment plans.
  • Nutritional and lifestyle support for vitamin deficiencies, anaemia, metabolic issues.
  • Post-operative recovery support and pain management.
  • Preconception counselling and postpartum support.
  • Immunity support and strategies to reduce frequency of infections.

Dr. Travkina combines evidence-based medicine with an attentive, personalised approach. Her consultations focus not only on treatment, but also on prevention, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.

If during the consultation it becomes clear that your case requires in-person assessment or specialised care outside of her scope, the session will be terminated and the payment fully refunded.

0.0 (16)
Doctor

Antonio Cayatte

General medicine 44 years exp.

Dr Antonio Cayatte is a physician in General and Acute Medicine with over 30 years of experience across clinical care, medical research, and education. He offers online consultations for adults with a wide range of symptoms, both acute and chronic. His clinical background includes: 

  • assessment of sudden or unclear symptoms
  • ongoing care for chronic conditions
  • follow-up after hospital discharge
  • interpretation of test results
  • medical support while abroad

Dr Cayatte earned his degree from the University of Lisbon and taught internal medicine at Boston University School of Medicine. He holds active medical registrations in both Portugal and the UK and is a Fellow of the American Heart Association. Consultations are available in English and Portuguese. Patients value his clarity, professionalism, and balanced approach to evidence-based care.

Dr. Antonio Cayatte provides comprehensive care for a broad spectrum of common health concerns, including:

  • Respiratory & ENT: acute bronchitis, concerns related to pneumonia, sinusitis, tonsillitis, ear infections, sore throat conditions, and allergic rhinitis
  • Eye Health: allergic and infectious conjunctivitis, as well as red or irritated eyes
  • Digestive & Urinary: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, urinary tract infections, and cystitis
  • Chronic Conditions: hypertension, elevated cholesterol, and structured weight management planning
0.0 (0)
Doctor

Sviatoslav Chekhun

Oncology 13 years exp.

Dr. Sviatoslav Chekhun is a medical oncologist with international clinical and research experience, specializing in modern medical oncology and a personalized approach to cancer treatment.

Currently (since 2025), he works as a Medical Oncologist at Institut Català d’Oncologia (Girona, Spain). Previously, he completed his residency in Medical Oncology and was involved in clinical research at Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol.

Dr. Chekhun has a strong academic and scientific background. He served as a lecturer in Internal Medicine at O.O. Bohomolets National Medical University and conducted research in experimental oncology at the R.E. Kavetsky Institute of Experimental Pathology, Oncology and Radiobiology.

Earlier in his career, he worked as a medical oncologist at the Kyiv City Clinical Oncological Center and contributed to regulatory evaluation of medicinal products at the State Expert Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.

When to consult Dr. Chekhun:

  •  for diagnosis or clarification of a cancer diagnosis
  •  to obtain a second opinion on an existing treatment plan 
  •  when you need a personalized treatment strategy 
  •  for interpretation of test results, CT, MRI, PET-CT, and biopsies 
  •  when choosing between treatment options (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy) 
  •  in case of doubts about treatment strategy or disease progression 

Consultation format

Dr. Chekhun provides online consultations, where you can receive:

  •  expert second opinion 
  •  detailed case review 
  •  recommendations based on current international treatment guidelines 
  •  personalized treatment and follow-up plan 

Important:
Prescription and monitoring of medications must be carried out by your treating physician in an in-person (offline) setting. An online consultation does not replace a face-to-face visit but helps you make more informed decisions about your treatment.

Dr. Sviatoslav Chekhun combines clinical practice, research, and international experience, enabling him to provide patients with modern, evidence-based approaches in oncology.

bg-pattern-dark

Stay informed about Oladoctor

News about new services, product updates and useful information for patients.

Follow us on social media