Temperatures are sub-zero, and everyone seems to be coming down with something.
But is what you (or your kids) have treatable with antibiotics? Or should you simply let it run its course?
Put simply, colds and many other upper respiratory infections, as well as some ear infections, are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Antibiotics will only cure bacterial infections, not viruses, according to theCenter for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While colds can occasionally lead to bacterial infections of your middle ear or sinuses, thus requiring treatment with antibiotics, the CDC says that using antibiotics to cure a cold can often do more harm than good.
“Never take antibiotics for a viral infection,” advises Dr. Kenneth Fox, MD, pediatrician withNorthShore University HealthSystem.
“Antibiotic overuse is a problem because it accelerates and amplifies the development of antibiotic resistant forms of bacteria, also known as ‘superbugs,’” Dr. Fox says. “Antibiotic resistance means that medications will no longer work to kill the germs that cause illness. This results in more severe and longer-lasting infections that are more difficult and expensive to treat.”
When are antibiotics warranted?
“Antibiotics are needed to treat bacterial infections, as well as some fungal and parasitic infections,” Dr. Fox explains. “The most common kinds of bacterial infections for which antibiotics are used are strep throat, bladder/kidney, some ear infections, skin and wound infections, severe sinus infections, meningitis and blood infections, and some sexually transmitted diseases.”
When prescribed antibiotics, it’s important to follow the instructions exactly, including taking the full course, even if you are feeling better just after a few days. “Successful elimination of bacterial infections depends on achieving an adequate level of the drug for an adequate period of time. Too low a dose or too short a course helps antibiotic-resistant germs thrive,” Dr. Fox cautions.
Do your symptoms require a visit to the doctor or pediatrician?
- According to Dr. Jonathan Birnberg, MD, MS, Associate Medical Director, Clinical Analytics at NorthShore University HealthSystem, look for the following as a basic indicator that a trip to the doctor is warranted:
- A high fever, more than 100.4 degrees, could be a sign of a bacterial infection
- Shortness of breath could be a sign of pneumonia (infection in the lungs)
- Symptoms that last more than 10 days without improvement. (Dr. Birnberg adds, “It’s OK if you’re not back to 100 percent better by day 10, but you should be on the upswing.”)
So play it safe during the dreary months. Take all medications as prescribed, stay hydrated, and know when it’s time to visit your physician. When in doubt, err on the side of caution, especially with your children, and have them checked out by a health professional.
