While a year plus of pandemic restrictions have been a challenge, there have been some bonuses. Masks, social distancing, renewed focus on hand washing, sanitizing and less crowd interactions have all lead to fewer flu and common bacterial/viral cold transmissions. We, as a society, are beginning to emerge from our homes more frequently, thanks to increasing vaccination rates. It may be helpful to revisit some pre-pandemic infection fighting knowledge.
Antibiotics: Some work by killing bacteria directly, like penicillin. Others, such as erythromycin, ( often prescribed for ear infections, ) work with the immune system to stop the bacteria from multiplying.
The Magic Pill? Antibiotics fight only infections caused by bacteria; they have no potency against viruses.
Viral or Bacterial? It is sometimes difficult to differentiate between the two infections. Mucus color, mild vs. high fever, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue and dehydration could all be determining factors between viral and bacterial infections. It is possible for a secondary bacterial infection to develop from a viral infection while your body is trying to recover. Doctors can use throat, urine, or blood cultures or a chest x-ray to determine if an infection is bacterial.
Which Antibiotic? Healthcare providers prescribe antibiotics based on which is most effective for the bacterial infection you have. Be sure to bring up any concerns about the choice, dosage, time and side effects with the prescriber.
Stomach Upset: Antibiotics also kill the good bacteria that help keep our digestive tract healthy. Take probiotics while taking antibiotics to prevent nausea and diarrhea. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist which probiotic might be most effective. Certain antibiotics should be eaten with a meal, ( always ask your pharmacist if your prescription should be taken with food, ) because they are more easily tolerated with a full stomach. If you do not feel well enough to eat a meal, at least take your medication with a banana or a few crackers.
Use Sparingly: Broad spectrum antibiotics should be used rarely, only when the prescriber cannot determine the exact bacterium causing the infection. These types of antibiotics will kill the good bacteria along with the bad bacteria which leads to an increased risk of bacterial antibiotic resistance. A lack of good bacteria in the intestinal flora can leave you vulnerable to an invasive gastrointestinal bacterium called C-Diff. The symptoms are severe including pain and violent diarrhea. C-Diff can be life threatening.
Antibiotic Resistance: It is imperative that we take antibiotics exactly as prescribed, do not take other people's antibiotics and take them ONLY for bacterial illnesses. Repeated use and misuse of antibiotics teaches bacteria how to mutate, change and become resistant to antibiotics. Unfortunately antibiotic resistance means someday, antibiotics may stop working.
When Needed:
Antibiotics are never helpful with upper respiratory infections. The common cold is a virus and antibiotics won't help.
Antibiotics are sometimes helpful for some ear infections, sinus infections, and pneumonia. Your doctor will need to determine if your infection is viral or bacterial.
Antibiotics are always helpful for Strep Throat and UTIs.
Common Antibiotics:
Amoxicillin: treats ear infections, strep throat, sinusitis, and pneumonia.
Azithromycin: used for pneumonia, pertussis, and for those who have penicillin-related allergies.
Cephalexin: given for skin infections or urinary tract infections.
Clindamycin: prescribed for skin infections or for infections in those with penicillin-related allergies.
Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole: an alternate medication for skin or urinary tract infections.
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