Main signs of a chest infection this winter as cases surge

On the incoming winter, one which has already besieged the UK with high rainfall, Doctor Armitage said: ‘Heading into winter, people need to keep an eye out for a range of warning signs for chest infections.’According to Doctor Armitage the main symptoms of a chest infection to look out for are a “persistent cough, breathlessness or rapid and shallow breathing, wheezing, a high temperature, a rapid heartbeat, chest pain or tightness”.He added that people should ‘wrap up warm, eat lots of fruit and vegetables, even if it’s frozen, and limiting your alcohol consumption are great ways to reduce the risk of a chest infection”.The reason for this is because chest infections are predicted to rise dramatically this winter, a phenomenon driven by a news story that has been dominating headlines for months.READ MORE: Acholic stools are ‘early’ sign of liver disease – doctor The number of chest infections is set to rise rapidly (Image: Getty)Doctor Armitage said: ‘Recent data from Florence suggests that cases of chest infections are set to rise by two fifths (42 percent) over the winter months.’The cost of living crisis will be a significant contributing factor to the rise in chest infections over the coming months.’Poorer diets and worsening living conditions, all as a result of the cost of living crisis, will likely see a rise in chest infections and exacerbate longer term conditions.’The less good quality food people can afford, the less likely they will be able to get the nutrients they need to remain healthy; this comes after some shocking research conducted by Doctor Armitage’s company Florence.DON’T MISSTwo signs of cholesterol that could lead to ‘amputation’ if ignored [HIGH CHOLESTEROL]Avoid four types of drinks to lower risk of blood clots – nutritionist [BLOOD CLOTS]The ‘first noticeable’ sign that your cholesterol is high [HIGH CHOLESTEROL] The number of people suffering poor mental health is also rising. (Image: Getty) A toll is also being taken on healthcare staff. (Image: Getty)Doctor Armitage added: ”Staff shortages are the single biggest threat to global healthcare. High vacancy rates are fuelling long wait times, burnout, and ultimately driving the existing workforce out – all in search of less pressure and better pay.’Whilst Florence is working to alleviate some of this pressure by allowing flexibility within the industry and reducing some short-term impacts of staff shortages, this is unsustainable. We need an urgent, long-term solution.’We need to see increased pay, greater efforts to bring more people into healthcare and enhanced training as a start. We need to look after our frontline healthcare workers.’This research comes at a time when the hardest hit in society are just about to receive some financial support from the Government as it looks to try to lessen the strain on the UK’s poorest.