Do You Really Need That Antibiotic? Here is How You Know
As a doctor I get many calls asking to be prescribed an antibiotic. Whether or not you need an antibiotic depends on the type of infection you're dealing with. Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections but not viral infections. Here’s how you can tell if you might need an antibiotic:
When antibiotics are needed (bacterial infections):
- Bacterial throat infections (e.g., strep throat)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Skin infections (like cellulitis)
- Sinus infections (if bacterial)
- Certain types of ear infections
When antibiotics are not needed (viral infections):
- Common cold
- Flu
- Viral sore throat (not strep throat)
- Most cases of bronchitis
- Most cases of sinus infections (if viral)
- COVID-19 (caused by a virus)
How can you tell?
- Symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, and fatigue could be viral or bacterial, and a healthcare professional would need to evaluate them to determine whether antibiotics are necessary.
- If your symptoms are getting worse over time (like a worsening cough, persistent fever, or pain), it could indicate a bacterial infection, and seeing a doctor is important.
What should you do?
- See a healthcare provider: They can diagnose the cause of your illness and determine if antibiotics are necessary.
- Avoid self-diagnosing and self-medicating: Taking antibiotics when they are not needed can be harmful and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
If you're unsure about whether antibiotics are the right treatment for you, it’s best to contact a healthcare professional who can guide you through the decision.
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Kathryn Grinnen, D.O.
Core Concierge Health
19330 Lighthouse Plaza Blvd
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
web: www.coreconciergehealth.com
phone: 302-585-8022
