We are coming into infection season. Colds, the flu, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, pneumonia, and more seem to occur more often as the we stay inside in the colder weather.
Should all infections be treated with an antibiotic? NO
If your infection is from a virus then an antibiotic will provide NO HELP.
If your infection is mild, and your immune system is strong, you can often fight the infection without an antibiotic.
If you do require an antibiotic, have you ever been tempted to take it until you feel better then stop and save the rest for next time? DON’T DO IT!
If you take nothing else from this blog, please take your entire course of antibiotics.
Antibiotics can either weaken an infection until your body’s immune system can completely get rid of it or kill the bacteria. Either way, if the antibiotic is stopped once most of the bacteria are weak or killed, then those few bacteria that are not weak or killed can come back. When they do come back, they can also change just enough that the antibiotic will no longer work.
Antibiotic resistance, when bacteria stop responding to a particular antibiotic, is dangerous. It requires more advanced antibiotics which have more side effects and have a broader effect. Then, if resistance develops to those (usually when the full course is not taken), then even more advanced antibiotics are needed.
When this happens too much you can become resistant to many antibiotics. Also, when this happens over time, entire communities can get strains of bacteria that don’t respond to the usual antibiotics.
I share this to beg you to take every last dose of your antibiotics if you need them this year.
To help you avoid infections, please wash your hands frequently. Especially when you are out in public touching door handles, shopping cart handles, restaurant tables and chairs, etc, you are increasing your risk of picking up a virus or bacteria. When your hands dirty, avoid touching your face, mouth, eyes, and nose.
Have a healthy fall and winter!
For more information about antibiotics and treatment for colds and flu,contact us at www.medsmash.com.
For further application, check out my personal blog.
Image credit: Centers for Disease Control Public Health Image Library
