10/28/2011
DOCTOR, I NEED AN ANTIBIOTIC
A Healthy Message Brought to you by Sandy Miller, ER Nurse Practitioner
Common Bacterial Infections include urinary tract infections, strep throat, severe sinuses infections and some ear infections. Most of these will require an antibiotic before you feel better. While viral infections include common cold, coughs, influenza, most sore throats, bronchitis, some ear infections and stomach flu. These illnesses do not require an antibiotic to make you feel better. Over the counter medications can help relieve some of these symptoms.
Taking an antibiotic when you have a virus will not resolve the virus. When you are taking the antibiotic you may feel some better, yet after being off the antibiotic for a couple of days the symptoms of the virus will return.
When your healthcare provider gives you an antibiotic your responsibility is to take the medication as directed. Should you develop side effects from the medication, contact your provider’s office for advice. Do not stop the medication because you are feeling better. Medications have been studied by the Food and Drug Administration for years before they are released for public use. The studies set the guidelines for how long it takes the medicine to resolve the illnesses.
Antibiotic resistance can cause illnesses to last longer. Ways to avoid antibiotic resistance include completing your prescriptions as directed, not using someone’s leftover medication, taking good care of your health and most importantly, following up with your healthcare provider when you are ill.
For more information, speak with your healthcare provider.