Chest infection assessment in Muirend,
free on the NHS.
Our prescribing pharmacist at Muirend Pharmacy can assess uncomplicated lower respiratory tract infections in adults and provide treatment where clinically appropriate — without a GP appointment.
Cost
Free NHS service
Eligibility
Adults 18+
Duration
15 minutes
Who this is for
This service is for adults aged 18 and over with symptoms of an uncomplicated lower respiratory tract infection — commonly known as a chest infection. Eligibility is confirmed at assessment.
Common symptoms
- ·A cough that produces coloured phlegm (yellow, green or brown)
- ·Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing with exertion
- ·A raised temperature or general feeling of being unwell
- ·Chest discomfort or tightness when coughing
- ·Fatigue more than you would expect from a cough or cold
This service is not suitable if you
- ·Are under 18
- ·Have severe breathlessness at rest
- ·Have coughed up blood
- ·Have a very high fever or are shaking and confused
- ·Have significant underlying lung conditions (e.g. COPD, asthma flare-up)
- ·Are immunocompromised
Many chest infections are viral and resolve without treatment. Our pharmacist will advise on the most appropriate course of action.
What happens at your appointment
01
Book
Book online or by phone. A health questionnaire will be sent to complete before your visit.
02
Assessment
Our pharmacist reviews your symptoms, respiratory history and uses clinical scoring to assess severity.
03
Treatment
Treatment is provided where clinically appropriate. Many lower respiratory tract infections are viral — our pharmacist will discuss the evidence with you.
04
Self-care plan
Advice on rest, hydration and when to seek further help. Safety-netting: what to watch for if symptoms change.
When to seek urgent care
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you have severe difficulty breathing at rest, are coughing up blood, your lips or fingernails are turning blue, or you are confused or very unwell.
Call NHS 24 on 111 if your symptoms are getting significantly worse rather than gradually improving over a week.
Clinically reviewed by
James McKeever
Superintendent Pharmacist · GPhC reg. 1042294
Last reviewed: 17 June 2026