In some cases, the antibiotic-resistant illness can lead to serious disability or even death. Resistance can happen if the bacterial infection is only partially treated. To prevent this, it is important to finish taking the entire prescription of antibiotics as instructed, even if your child is feeling better.
This complicated question, which should be answered by your healthcare provider, depends on the specific diagnosis. For example, there are several types of ear infections — most need antibiotics, but some do not. Most cases of sore throat are caused by viruses. One kind, strep throat, diagnosed by a lab test, needs antibiotics. Common viral infections, like coughs or a cold, can sometimes become complicated and a bacterial infection can develop.
However, treating viral infections with antibiotics in order to prevent bacterial infections is not recommended because of the risk of causing bacterial resistance:.
Remember that antibiotics do not work against viral colds and the flu, and that unnecessary antibiotics can be harmful. Talk with your healthcare provider about antibiotics and find out about the differences between viruses and bacteria, and when antibiotics should and should not be used. If your child receives an antibiotic, be sure to give it exactly as prescribed to decrease the development of resistant bacteria. Have your child finish the entire prescription.
Don't stop when the symptoms of infection go away. Never save the left over antibiotics to use "just in case. Not all microbes are harmful to humans. In fact, many of them protect us, helping our bodies function properly and competing with harmful organisms in an eternal contest for habitable space in or on our bodies.
Although the microorganisms that cause disease often receive more attention, most microorganisms do not cause illness. Search the National Academies Press website by selecting one of these related terms. The National Academies. Used properly, antibiotics can save lives.
But growing antibiotic resistance is curbing the effectiveness of these drugs. Taking an antibiotic as directed, even after symptoms disappear, is key to curing an infection and preventing the development of resistant bacteria.
There are several different classes of drugs in the antiviral family, and each is used for specific kinds of viral infections. Unlike antibacterial drugs, which may cover a wide spectrum of pathogens, antiviral medications are used to treat a narrower range of organisms.
Antiviral drugs are now available to treat a number of viruses, including influenza , human immunodeficiency virus HIV , herpes, and hepatitis B and C. Like bacteria, viruses mutate over time and develop resistance to antiviral drugs.
Modern medicine needs new kinds of antibiotics and antivirals to treat drug-resistant infections. Taking antibiotics when they're not needed won't help you, and they can have side effects. Your health care provider can decide the best treatment for you when you're sick. Don't ask your provider to prescribe an antibiotic for you. Antibiotics do not work on viral infections. For example, you shouldn't take antibiotics for. The side effects of antibiotics range from minor to very severe. Some of the common side effects include.
You should only take antibiotics when they are needed because they can cause side effects and can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance happens when the bacteria change and become able to resist the effects of an antibiotic.
This means that the bacteria continue to grow. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice.
Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. Learn More Related Issues. Research Clinical Trials Journal Articles. Resources Reference Desk Find an Expert. For You Children. What are antibiotics?
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