Are Antibiotics Bad For You? (Dangers Of Overusage)

The negative side effects of antibiotics have been a topic of discussion for a very long time. Some people genuinely think that using antibiotics is unnecessary. However, other people believe that it is safe to take with proper use. But what about you, do you think that antibiotics are bad for you? The Health on 21 Medical Centre doctors warns about excessive antibiotic usage, overusing it can cause bacterial or antibiotic resistance.

Overusing Antibiotics

Antibiotics are known to be one of the great discoveries in the medical field. Ever since it is used for treatments, a lot of people have been prescribed antibiotics at least once in their life. These medicines can fight off germs and bacteria effectively, something that most regular medicines cannot do.

But on the other hand, antibiotics are being overused by many as well. This is a very dangerous habit as it has significant effects on your immune system and other organs. It also leads to antibiotic resistance, a condition where the germs or bacteria becomes immune to antibiotics. In the end, it becomes hard for your doctor to treat the infection.

When bacterial resistance or antibiotic resistance occurs, the bacteria or microbes in your body will start to make alterations to themselves. In this case, the bacteria will become resistant to ordinary antibiotics, hence, requires a need for higher dosage or stronger medicine.

Because of overusing antibiotics, antibiotic resistance has become a worldwide health problem. As time goes by, the germs and bacteria around us are becoming more and more immune to antibiotics. Some bacterial infections get harder to treat as well, these include pneumonia, meningitis, ear, and sinus infections.

Additionally, taking them frequently damages your body’s ability to maintain good bacteria. These bacteria are important in keeping your body healthy. Good bacteria are essential in food digestion and lack of it might lead to diarrhea.

Is It Bad For You

Technically, antibiotics are not bad for you. They only become dangerous to your health when you use them frequently and inappropriately. These drugs are used to treat several bacterial infections, that’s why despite their negative image to some people, antibiotics still play a vital role in medical treatments.

The best way to get the best of these medicines is by using them correctly. This means that you need to strictly follow your doctor’s prescription and instructions on how to use them. You should also avoid self-medication to prevent the emergence of health problems caused by overusing antibiotics. Sometimes you might need to take antibiotics as a precaution before major dental surgeries, like tooth extraction. Again you should only consult with your dentist on such cases.

What do antibiotics treat? To help you understand the proper use of these medicines, it’s important to know the conditions that they actually treat. Use antibiotics on the following only:

• Bacterial infections. Bacteria are single-celled microbes that can be found almost everywhere. Most of them are harmless, in fact, good bacteria are beneficial for our body. However, others are pretty invasive and cause illnesses and infections that affect the body’s processes. Antibiotics help in reducing their presence in the body by hindering them from growing and developing.

Some people think that bacteria and viruses are the same things. Unlike bacteria, viruses are not alive. But they grow and develop once they invaded the living cells. Oftentimes, our bodies can defeat viruses before they begin to cause illnesses. Stronger ones cause colds and require immediate medical attention. Antibiotics do not work against viruses and should not be used as a medication for it.

Do’s And Don’ts Of Antibiotics

In order for antibiotics to work on you, it’s important to know how and when to use them. It would also help to know the improper use of these medicines for your own benefit. Listed below are the things that you must consider in taking antibiotics:

1. Antibiotics treat infections that are caused by bacteria only. (UTI, cough, strep throat)
2. It is not a treatment for viruses. Health conditions such as runny nose, colds, sore throat, and flu are not treatable by antibiotics.
3. Sinus infections and ear infections cannot be treated by these medicines as well.
4. Take antibiotics only when they are prescribed to you.
5. Using antibiotics for self-medication can only cause you more harm than good.
6. If you were prescribed antibiotics, take them according to your doctor’s instructions. Do not share the medicine with others and do not keep the leftovers.
7. Even though you have the same symptoms as others, it is not safe to take the medication prescribed to them.
8. Consult no one but your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns about your prescription.

Common Side Effects Of Antibiotics

If side effects start to emerge, stop using the medicines and ask your doctor about it. You will most likely be prescribed a new medicine. Here are some of the side effects that you might experience after you take antibiotics:

• Nausea
• Rash
• Yeast infection
• Diarrhea
• Allergic reactions

How To Stay Away From Bacteria

Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent the use of antibiotics, it’s better to keep yourself safe from bacterial infection. You can do this by doing the following;

1. Always clean your hands. You may also opt to use antiseptics such as hand sanitizer and alcohol.
2. Wear a facemask when going out.
3. Practice hygiene by covering your mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing.
4. Avoid going out if you are sick.
5. Prevent yourself from touching your face, nose, eyes, and mouth.
6. Keep your distance from sick people.
7. Opt for vaccines.

Remember that in most cases of sickness, over-the-counter medicines typically do the job. Consult your doctor and pharmacist for alternative medicines aside from antibiotics.