In most cases, bacteria do not cause significant health effects in humans. In the event of more serious symptoms or concerns about complications, doctors can use antibiotic medications to treat bacterial infections.
While beneficial in terms of treatment, patients must exhibit care when it comes to antibiotics. Here are a few important facts to consider about these medications and their benefits.
Certain types of bacteria can cause illness when introduced to a person’s body. Bacterial infections can affect numerous areas of the body and cause a wide range of symptoms. Common bacterial infections include:
Most bacterial infections do not cause serious effects. However, people with a higher risk of complications (such as those with compromised immune systems) must work closely with their doctor to ensure effective treatment.
Many bacterial infections resolve on their own. In this case, doctors may recommend bed rest and home remedies to manage symptoms until the illness subsides.
When bacterial infections are associated with more serious health problems, doctors can prescribe antibiotics. These medications target illness-causing bacteria and stop them from causing symptoms and complications. Antibiotics can come in pill form, but they may also be applied topically in the form of creams and ointments. In some cases, antibiotics may be administered intravenously.
Antibiotic medications are only used to treat infections caused by bacteria. This class of medication cannot treat viral infections. Taking antibiotics to treat viruses can increase a person’s risk of antibiotic resistance. This can lead to very serious health issues if a person needs to take antibiotics in the future to address a bacterial infection.
Also, patients must complete the antibiotics course for the best outcome. Stopping the medication before the course is completed can increase the chance of antibiotic resistance.