Viral illnesses like the common cold and the flu primarily affect the respiratory system, including the lungs, throat and sinuses. One very common symptom of colds is chest congestion. Chest congestion is caused by the build up of mucus in the lungs, and can lead to a feeling of shortness of breath, having to cough, or chest tightness. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, keep reading. This article will review what cold-related chest congestion feels like, how long it lasts, and when to seek medical care can help you make the right decision for your health.
At AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook, our walk-in clinic is available 7 days a week to provide prompt cold symptom diagnosis and treatment to patients in Bound Brook and Bridgewater, New Jersey. If you’re suffering from chest congestion, don’t ignore your symptoms. Walk into AFC Bound Brook for rapid same-day care instead. To save time, use the link below to save your spot in line.
What Is Chest Congestion?
Chest congestion occurs when mucus builds up in the lungs and lower airways during a viral respiratory infection, such as a case of the common cold. Unlike nasal congestion, which affects the sinuses, chest congestion impacts breathing and often causes coughing, tightness, or pressure in the chest. Cold-related chest congestion is usually caused by inflammation and excess mucus as your body fights off a virus. Most cases of chest congestion from a cold last for 7–10 days, although symptoms like coughing can persist for up to 2–3 weeks
How to Diagnose Cold-Related Chest Congestion
Cold-related chest congestion can feel different for everyone, and can be difficult to diagnose. Patients suffering from cold-induced chest congestion often experience the following symptoms:
- A heavy or tight feeling in the chest
- A persistent cough
- Wheezing or crackling sounds when breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up thick, yellow or green mucus
- Chest discomfort that worsens when lying down
Chest congestion often develops a few days after other cold symptoms such as nasal congestion or a sore throat. As a result, symptoms associated with chest congestion often linger longer than other cold symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Care
While a cold can lead to chest congestion, difficulty breathing and similar symptoms can also indicate the development of a more severe condition like bronchitis and pneumonia.
Chest congestion may indicate a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a medical professional if you’re experience any of the following symptoms:
- Chest pain or pressure that does not improve with coughing
- High fever (over 101°F) lasting more than 3 days
- Severe shortness of breath
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Bluish lips or fingernails
- Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days without improvement
Visit AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook for Cold Symptom Diagnosis & Treatment
If you’re experiencing chest congestion, it is important to seek medical care to rule out a more serious condition. At AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook, our walk-in clinic offers fast, convenient evaluation of illness symptoms like chest congestion on a walk-in basis. Early treatment can help relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and give you peace of mind.
We’re open 7 days a week, and our board-certified medical providers are experts in diagnosing common illness symptoms and treating them effectively. We work with most medical insurance providers, and have affordable self-pay rates. Walk in today for same-day care!
