Antibiotics - When Should You Take Them?

I was asked the other day about whether a person should take antibiotics for a cold. This has been a source on consternation for me for years. Colds are caused by viruses. Antibiotics only help with bacterial infections and the antibiotics cannot do it alone. Your immune system in fact has to do most of the work. So having a healthy immune system is by far the most important thing in keeping you well.

Usually when the immune system is compromised by stress, lack of sleep, or something else is when you become sick with a cold. You can be healthy, but stress will really knock your immune system down and open the door for a virus to take hold.

The other thing to be aware of is that viruses usually last 10-14 days. Most people get impatient and want to be better right now. That is not going to happen with antibiotics, so don't rush off to the doctor in search of a magic pill. Rather boost up your immune system so that it can handle the virus.