The Pros And Cons Of Antibiotic Therapies

Antibiotic therapies are a lifesaving tool for bacterial infections. However, the overuse of antibiotics is creating a problem called antibiotic resistance. This resistance can lead to infections that are difficult or even impossible to treat. This is one of the more prominent reason why more and more people are concerned about antibiotics.

Pros

Antibiotic therapies have saved millions of lives by killing harmful bacteria that cause infections. Doctors use antibiotics to treat infections caused by bacteria, like a urinary tract infection, sinus or ear infection, or strep throat. These drugs can be bactericidal, which kills the bacteria, or bacteriostatic, which stops the growth of the bacteria and keeps it from spreading. Additionally, they have been used for many decades and are still used to this day. They are even added to cleaning detergents, soaps, wet wipes and creams, to help keep the number of infections that are affecting human beings to a minimum.

Cons

Antibiotic therapies are a critical tool in the fight against infectious diseases. However, they are also associated with many health problems. For example, doctors often prescribe antibiotics indiscriminately for a range of illnesses and conditions. This can lead to resistance, causing “superbugs” that are more difficult to treat. Patients should communicate with their physicians about whether antibiotics are necessary for a particular condition. This can prevent the overuse of antibiotics and help keep everyone healthier in the long run. The CDC estimates that every year, 2.8 million people in the United States get infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and at least 35,000 die from these infections. The CDC calls antibiotic resistance the “worst public health threat in our nation.”

Side Effects

The best way to avoid antibiotic side effects is to follow your doctor’s instructions. Never stop taking antibiotics just because you feel better – that will only help your infection get worse and make it harder to cure. And while antibiotics can be helpful in the short term, they can also have a negative effect on the gut microbiome and cause long-term health problems. It’s important to use antibiotics only in emergencies and take precautions to keep your intestines healthy and balanced. Some of the most common antibiotic side effects include nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should drink plenty of fluids and eat small, frequent meals. It’s also a good idea to tell your doctor about any side effects you experience so they can treat them quickly.