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Treatment Options
Bacterial Infection
Helping Yourself
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one third
of all the antibiotics prescribed each year - 150 million of them--are
unnecessary. By taking antibiotics more often than you need to, your body can
develop a resistance to the drugs, making them useless when you do get a
bacterial infection. The more resistant bacteria become, the more difficult it
will be to treat them in the future.
So one of the best ways to protect yourself against bacterial infections is
not to ask your doctor for an antibiotic when you have a virus - a cold or flu,
for example. In the case of a virus, antibiotics will not help you get better
and may make you worse - if you have an adverse reaction to the medication.
Therefore, when you have a virus, drink plenty of fluids, get lots of rest, and
try over-the-counter products rather than prescription drugs.
Over-the-counter preparations that may relieve your cough or cold symptoms
include:
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aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain - children should
avoid aspirin unless specifically directed by a pediatrician
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decongestants to open clogged nasal passageways and sinuses
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cough liquids and drops to control coughing
As always, carefully read product labels and heed all cautions. And, get
plenty of rest. Given time, your immune system will be able to do its job and
get rid of the virus.
Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.
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