Antibiotics are medications used to treat diseases caused by bacteria, they either kill the bacteria or reduces their growth. The antibiotic penicillin was 1st discovered in 1928, by Alexander Fleming. These antibiotics are a lifesaver when used properly.
Whenever there is a bacterial infection, our immune system can fight back. But when there are excessive bacteria, the immune system can not fight them all. In such condition, antibiotics are advised.
When to use Antibiotics
Antibiotics usually help to treat the following infections-
- Ear infection
- Strep throat
- Dental infections
- Meningitis
- Urinary tract infections (UTI)
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s)
- Eye infection
- Skin infection
Only bacterial infections can be treated by antibiotics. Antibiotics do not fight against viral infections like-
- Common cold
- Flu
- Coughs, and
- Sore throats.
Some reality –
Antibiotics are great inventions and have saved many lives. But, taking antibiotics does not mean that they will fix all your symptoms. All antibiotics do is to kill the bacteria and it takes days for them to clear away that group of bacteria. Hence antibiotics are not a quick fix for any infection but are a potential lifesaver. Overuse of antibiotics can make your body bacterial resistant.
When taking antibiotics, follow the course advised by your doctor. It is important to finish the course even after feeling good. If medication is stopped in between, then there is a chance of reinfection by the remaining bacteria. This further leads to bacterial resistance.
Missing a dose
If accidentally you miss a dose of your antibiotic, then take it as soon as you remember, and continue the course. But if you have skipped one dose and its time for the next dose, do not try to double your dose. Finish your course in the normal schedule.
Side effects
Antibiotics do not cause any serious side effects. Some common side effects are:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion and bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Rash or allergy
Antibiotic Resistance
Overuse of antibiotics has led to antibacterial resistance. Each time a new antibiotic is introduced, the bacteria adapt over time and become resistant within a few years. This is a big threat health industry is facing these days.
Antibiotic resistance is growing due to overuse and misuse of this drug. Bacteria which becomes resistant to all antibiotics can cause a major health hazard.
If antibiotics become less effective, then it becomes impossible to treat infections like pneumonia, gonorrhea, and tuberculosis.
Ways to fight back Antibiotic Resistance
To fight back this challenge, both health care provider and patients need to work towards it.
- The health care provider needs to explain the patients, how antibiotics work and do they really need it.
- Health care provider should avoid prescribing antibiotics when not required.
- Follow your doctor\’s instruction while taking antibiotics and complete the course.
- Do not skip doses and do not save them for later.
- Trust your healthcare provider.
- Follow some hygiene habits like washing hands, preparing hygienic food and avoiding close contact with an infected person, can prevent infections.
Researches have shown that Antibiotic resistance is seen worldwide. If this continues, then in future, people will die with simple infections that can be treated now. It is a wake-up call to take action towards reducing the use of antibiotics.
