When is a chest infection an exacerbation ???

Hi All,

I’ve had a chest infection for around 5 days low grade fever / cough / chest feels like it’s been hacked up with razor blades, feels like a normal(ish) chest infection or possibly RSV, I also have mild COPD.

My question is, I’d like to let my immune system have a bit of a work out (it probably needs the exercise) so don’t really want to rush out for a rescue pack and start on steroids and antibiotics… At what point should I throw the towel in and seek advice. I guess I don’t want to be rushing out for or relying on rescue meds every time I get a minor infection…

I’m fairly new(ish) to this, so would like some advice from the voice of experience… Apart from mild COPD I’m fairly healthy with a good exercise tolerance. I’m based in the UK and accessing health care can be a nightmare at times…

Thanks in advance. Regards, Adam