The Overuse of Antibiotics

Many Americans do not realize that it is possible to overuse antibiotics. We have grown accustomed to going to our doctor and expecting a prescription for an antibiotic every time we get sick. This should not be the case. It can be very dangerous for us to take antibiotics if we do not need them. Antibiotics should only be given to treat bacterial infections. They should not be given to treat viruses. They will not work on viruses. When we take antibiotics that we do not need, our bodies build up a resistance to them. Studies are showing that it is becoming harder and harder to treat infections because bacteria have built up a resistance. Some of the bacteria that are not responding as well are the ones that cause meningitis, pneumonia, sinus infections, and ear infections. Scientists are having to figure out new antibiotics because of this.

One of the best ways to protect yourself from overuse of antibiotics is to make sure that you only take them if you have a bacterial infection. Do not try to treat yourself with another person's antibiotics. You should go to a doctor to make sure that you do not have a virus. If you have a virus, you can use other treatments to help the symptoms. If the doctor decides that you have a bacterial infection, be sure to take your prescription as prescribed. Do not skip doses. Bacteria can multiple if you do this. Try to take it on time. Be sure to finish you antibiotic completely. If you do not complete your antibiotic, bacteria can multiple. Also, the bacteria may become resistant to the antibiotic if you try to take it again.

Another great way to fight antibiotic resistance is to make sure that we do not spread infection. One way to do this is by making sure that we wash our hands often, especially if we have to cough or sneeze. Make sure to use a clean tissue every time. A second way is to avoid as much close contact with others while we are sick. A third way is to make sure that we wash our bedding so that we do not reinfect ourselves. Lastly, we need to make sure that we use antibiotics correctly. We need to only take them if we need them.