You wouldn’t use crutches to subdue a stomachache, nor would you rub anti-itch lotion on your temples to handle your headache. These aids and remedies work for what they’re intended, but make no sense for unrelated instances. The same goes for antibiotics. We’ve been conditioned to believe that antibiotics will “cure” all sorts of conditions. It’s simply not the case. The only reason to take them is for infections caused by bacteria.
Especially prevalent this time of year are viral infections, the common cold, flu, bronchitis*, and sinusitis* – and as much as we’re looking for a fast fix, antibiotics ain’t it. Despite this, many patients still receive a prescription after pressuring their clinicians. However, most medical professionals dedicated to proper use of antibiotics – like vybe urgent care – aim to educate those in their care about how antibiotics work and for what conditions they’re best. These professionals will find a treatment that’s sensible and appropriate to alleviate aches, pains, and overall discomfort.
If you think, “what’s the harm in taking antibiotics even if I don’t really need them?” you’re in for a shock. You may feel okay after the bottle’s empty, but inside your body, bacteria are getting stronger.
As Mayo Clinic explains, “Any bacterium that survives an antibiotic treatment can multiply and pass on its resistant properties. Also, some bacteria can transfer their medication-resistant properties to other bacteria — as if passing along a ‘cheat sheet’ to help each other survive.” It’s like a war zone inside your body – and the bacteria are winning.
Essentially, overuse of antibiotics gives bacteria a “workaround” and the next time you take antibiotics to tackle an actual bacterial infection, you’re at greater risk that they just won’t work. Perhaps your doctor will then have to prescribe a different strain of antibiotics as a second measure. It becomes a game of hit or miss, and as you keep popping the pills, the bacteria are getting “smarter.”
Not only can this compromise your personal care, but the effects will eventually spill over and spread throughout the human race. New types of antibiotics are not being created as quickly as these bacteria are becoming resistant. Additionally, the antibiotics can kill off “good” bacteria in your system that work to keep your body balanced and functioning like it’s supposed to. That’s why taking antibiotics when they’re not necessary is not only not helpful, but irresponsible and potentially dangerous. You can contact vybe here to further discuss the risks, should you wish.
This is not to say most professionals aren’t on the ball like vybe, but there are those out there who’ve been riding the antibiotic bandwagon right along with their patients – and they’re inclined to recommend this treatment when your condition doesn’t call for it. On the flip side, if your health care provider is certain your health problem isn’t bacterial in nature, arguing for antibiotics is a lost cause.
At least one in three antibiotic prescriptions in the U.S. is unnecessary – that’s 47 million per year! This is an astounding figure. Adding to it only makes the strains of resistant bacteria rise.
You can take precautions towards avoiding bacterial infections by following some advice from Mayo Clinic including practicing good hygiene, getting recommended vaccinations, and cooking food thoroughly.
Stay tuned for more antibiotic information from vybe. We strive to keep you educated and in excellent health. If you’re feeling under the weather, stop by your local vybe and we’ll have you feeling better as soon as you walk in!
*In about 5% of cases, these conditions are bacterial. Antibiotics could prove beneficial in these circumstances.
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