Hi, this is Dr. Zhang.
Today I’d like to talk with you about something that affects all of us: antibiotics. We rely on them to treat many common infections, but they need to be used wisely. Let’s walk through what antibiotics are, how they work, when they’re appropriate, their side effects, and the growing concern of antibiotic resistance.
What Are Antibiotics and How Do They Work?
Antibiotics are medications that treat infections caused by bacteria. They either kill the bacteria directly or stop them from multiplying so your immune system can finish the job. But here’s something important: antibiotics do not work against viruses. So illnesses like the cold, flu, most sore throats, and many ear infections won’t improve with antibiotics.
When Are Antibiotics Needed?
Doctors prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections that your body can’t easily clear on its own. These include:
- Strep throat (caused by Streptococcus bacteria)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Whooping cough
However, antibiotics are not needed for: - Colds and runny noses
- Most sore throats (unless it’s strep)
- Flu
- Most cases of bronchitis
Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed won’t make you feel better and can actually do harm.
CDC: When Antibiotics Are and Aren’t Needed
Matching the Right Antibiotic to the Right Infection
Not all antibiotics are the same. Different classes work in different ways and target different bacteria. Your doctor chooses an antibiotic based on where the infection is and which bacteria are likely responsible. Here are some examples:
- Amoxicillin (Penicillins): Used for ear infections, strep throat, and sinus infections
- Cephalexin (Cephalosporins): Often prescribed for skin infections and UTIs
- Azithromycin (Macrolides): Used for respiratory tract infections and STIs
- Ciprofloxacin (Fluoroquinolones): For more serious infections like certain UTIs
- Doxycycline (Tetracyclines): Used for acne, Lyme disease, and respiratory infections
Side Effects and Reactions to Be Aware Of
Like all medications, antibiotics can cause side effects. Some are mild, while others can
be serious:
- Digestive upset: Nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps
- Fungal infections: Yeast infections in the mouth or vaginal area
- Allergic reactions: Rashes, itching, or serious issues like anaphylaxis
If you experience any severe reactions, seek medical attention right away. Medical News Today: Side Effects of Antibiotics
The Growing Threat of Antibiotic Resistance
One of the biggest concerns we face is antibiotic resistance. This happens when bacteria evolve and antibiotics can no longer kill them. It’s not your body that becomes resistant-it’s the bacteria.
Why is this a problem?
- Infections become harder to treat
- Hospital stays become longer
- Surgeries and chemotherapy become riskier
- Infections that were once routine can now be deadly
The CDC estimates that more than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur each year in the U.S., causing over 35,000 deaths. CDC Antibiotic Resistance Threats Report (2022)
Globally, a 2019 study in The Lancet linked antibiotic resistance to nearly 5 million deaths in a single year. The Lancet Global Burden Study
How does resistance happen?
Each time bacteria are exposed to antibiotics, there’s a chance some may survive due to a random mutation. These survivors multiply, and over time, a new resistant strain forms. This can spread from person to person, across communities, and even from animals to humans.
What You Can Do to Help
As patients, you play a huge role in slowing resistance:
1. Only use antibiotics when truly needed: Don’t pressure your doctor to
prescribe them for a viral illness.
2. Follow instructions carefully: Finish the full course as prescribed. Don’t skip
doses or save pills for later.
3. Never share antibiotics: They may not be appropriate for someone else’s
illness.
4. Stay up to date on vaccines: Vaccines help prevent infections, which means
fewer antibiotics are needed.
5. Practice good hygiene: Handwashing, covering coughs, and staying home
when sick reduces the spread of infection.
6. Be thoughtful about food choices: Look for meat raised without routine
antibiotic use.
What the Medical Community Is Doing
Healthcare providers and public health agencies are also stepping up through:
- Antibiotic stewardship programs
- Better diagnostic tools
- Public education campaigns
- Tracking and reporting of resistance trends
To learn more about what the CDC is doing, visit: CDC Antibiotic Resistance Solutions Initiative
Final Thoughts
Antibiotics are powerful tools that save lives-when used wisely. The decisions we make today can help protect these medications for the future. By working together and staying informed, we can reduce the spread of resistance and keep our communities healthy.
If you ever have questions about antibiotics or whether you need one, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider. We’re here to help.
Take care,
Dr. Zhang
Medical Director
Haven Elite Urgent Care
Helpful Resources:
CDC: Be Antibiotics Aware
WHO: Antibiotic Resistance Fact Sheet CDC Resistance Report 2022 (PDF)