The development of antibiotics is acknowledged as one of the largest advancements in medicine. However, antibiotics are not intended to be a cure-all as many believe. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “antibiotics do not fight infections caused by viruses like colds, most sore throats, bronchitis, and some ear infections.”

For many ailments, the CDC recommends symptom relief as the best treatment option, because if antibiotics are used too often for an illness they do not treat, they may not work against bacteria when you need them to. This is known as antibiotic resistance.

Here are several ways to help you combat antibiotic resistance:

  • Be proactive: Talk with your physician. Have an open dialogue and express your concerns about whether the illness is a bacterial or viral infection. If your physician does not prescribe an antibiotic, trust their judgment that they are not necessary for treating your illness.
  • Use antibiotics properly: If a physician prescribes an antibiotic for a bacterial infection, be sure to take the entire prescription as directed. Do not skip doses or save any pills for the next time you are sick.
  • Only use antibiotics prescribed to you: Do not take antibiotics prescribed for someone else. Different antibiotics target different types of bacteria and the prescription may not be the right one for your illness. Taking the wrong medication delays treatment and allows bacteria to increase. There are other potential hazards as well. The antibiotic you borrowed could be in a class of antibiotics you are allergic to, or it may interact with your current medications. Additionally, it may not be safe for you to take a specific antibiotic if you have a pre-existing condition.

Talk with your physician about the best treatment for your illness, which may include over-the-counter medication or home remedies. For example, if your child has an upper respiratory viral infection, your physician may recommend increasing fluid intake; getting plenty of rest; using a cool-mist vaporizer or saline nasal spray; using ice chips, sore throat spray, and/or lozenges to soothe your child’s throat. Your pharmacist is also a valuable resource about at-home treatment options that may help reduce symptoms.

Patient First treats many conditions at our urgent care centers. You can visit any Patient First center from 8am to 8pm, any day of the week – no appointment is need


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