Chest infection..how do you know if it is bacterial or viral ?

[bizzey]

Basicly can you feel /know thete is a difference.

No. But your GP might be able to advise based on detailed description of the symptoms and a physical examination.

Often bugs start off viral, but then after a few days you can get a secondary bacterial infection in the chest. So if you noticed a sudden worsening, then it's possible/likely that you now have a bacterial infection. (In which case antibiotics can help, which they can't for viral.)

NB I am not a doctor. Layman's knowledge as I've had a couple of nasty/prolonged bugs recently.

I always go to the pharmacist first. Saves waiting for/ wasting a GP’s appt. The pharmacist can prescribe me antibiotics if needed, or fastrack me to the GP if necessary.

Thank you for your kind reply. I have gp booked for tomorrow.. well today!
1/2 want it to be antibiotics treatment to get it over with .

MazDazzle are you UK ? Cough syrup is all we get from our chemist !
But thank you for replying.