I have had this hacking cough for eight days now. At what point do I see my doctor and consider antibiotics?

First of all, most antibiotic therapy is targeted against bacteria, and as I wrote in a previous column, most colds and respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics are no help against the common cold or influenza.

Bacterial infections in the lung usually develop secondary to viral infections. Lung cells killed by the virus are shed into the airways and are caught up in the mucous produced by the lungs.

This makes the perfect growing medium for bacteria. That is why I am so adamant about deep breathing, coughing and exercising when you are sick – flushing out the mucous keeps the lungs clean.

It is important for you to be aware of how much mucous your lungs are producing, and what colour it is.

Clear to white sputum is a good sign. Yellow comes from old white blood cells and is a sign your body is fighting the infection. When the colour changes from yellow to green, or any other colour of the rainbow, you may be losing the battle against the bug and it is probably time to see the doctor.

The doctor still may decide not to give you antibiotics but will take into account other factors like your general health, pre-existing lung disease and whether or not you appear to be getting better.

Your doctor may even order a chest X-ray to see if there is a localized infection in the lung, which is pneumonia.

Regardless of whether or not you need antibiotics or have pneumonia, there are several ways you can optimize your health and recovery.

As I’ve said many times before, exercise is essential to keep the lungs, heart and muscles functioning optimally. It is important to get more rest when you are sick, but too much rest can make you sicker.

Drink plenty of fluids – hot or cold is a matter of preference, but caffeine and alcohol only dehydrate you further.

Nutrition is also key. You really are what you eat. Our Western diet has lots of calories, but little nutrients.

Even the healthiest people can come down with a cold, and sometimes no matter how diligent you are with your health, you may need antibiotics.

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Chris Semrick is a respiratory therapist at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.