With as many as 5 antibiotic prescriptions being written for every 6 patients seen by a physician, antibiotic resistance has become an increasing concern over the years amongst Canadian healthcare professionals. Antibiotic resistance is a result of antibiotic misuse, i.e. taking antibiotics when they are not required or not following proper dosing instructions. When antibiotics are taken for non-bacterial infections, certain bacteria can then become drug-resistant, making true bacterial infections more difficult to treat.
Bacteria can be spread from person to person, via contaminated surfaces, in food and water, as well as contact with animals and international travel. Below is a look at some common bacterial infections and the types of antibiotics Dr. Ali Ghahary uses to treat them.
For respiratory infections such as pneumonia, the most commonly prescribed antibiotic is Amoxicillin. Alternatively, Clarithromycin, Doxycycline or Erythromycin may also be prescribed.
For ear, nose and throat related infections such as sinusitis or strep throat, Penicillin and Amoxicillin are both commonly prescribed.
For skin infections (such as insect bites), commonly prescribed antibiotics include Amoxicillin Clavulanate, Metronidazole, Cephalexin and Erythromycin.
For urinary tract infections, the commonly prescribed antibiotics are Septra, Ciprofloxacin, and Nitrofurantoin.
Antibiotics should only be prescribed if symptoms are severe or not resolving, or if the patient is at risk of developing further health complications. Another reason for antibiotics only being prescribed when absolutely necessary is due to their common and sometimes severe side effects. It is not uncommon to experience upset stomach or diarrhea when taking an antibiotic. This is due to antibiotics killing off the body’s normal defensive bacteria.
When taking an antibiotic you should always ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids in addition to taking a probiotic. Probiotics will not only help to restore the “good” bacteria, but also boost the body’s immunity.
Allergic reactions are another concern for individuals taking antibiotics; such as a skin rash, hives, swelling, or irritation of the mouth, tongue, lips or throat; in severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur which requires Epinephrine to be administered followed by hospitalization to be monitored closely for any reoccurrence of the allergic reaction. If you experience an allergic reaction, you should stop the antibiotic immediately and speak to your physician. You may be required to take an antihistamine (such as Benadryl) to reverse the effects of the allergic reaction, and your physician will find an alternative, safe antibiotic for you to take.
Bacteria can be spread from person to person, via contaminated surfaces, in food and water, as well as contact with animals and international travel. Below is a look at some common bacterial infections and the types of antibiotics Dr. Ali Ghahary uses to treat them.
For respiratory infections such as pneumonia, the most commonly prescribed antibiotic is Amoxicillin. Alternatively, Clarithromycin, Doxycycline or Erythromycin may also be prescribed.
For ear, nose and throat related infections such as sinusitis or strep throat, Penicillin and Amoxicillin are both commonly prescribed.
For skin infections (such as insect bites), commonly prescribed antibiotics include Amoxicillin Clavulanate, Metronidazole, Cephalexin and Erythromycin.
For urinary tract infections, the commonly prescribed antibiotics are Septra, Ciprofloxacin, and Nitrofurantoin.
Antibiotics should only be prescribed if symptoms are severe or not resolving, or if the patient is at risk of developing further health complications. Another reason for antibiotics only being prescribed when absolutely necessary is due to their common and sometimes severe side effects. It is not uncommon to experience upset stomach or diarrhea when taking an antibiotic. This is due to antibiotics killing off the body’s normal defensive bacteria.
When taking an antibiotic you should always ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids in addition to taking a probiotic. Probiotics will not only help to restore the “good” bacteria, but also boost the body’s immunity.
Allergic reactions are another concern for individuals taking antibiotics; such as a skin rash, hives, swelling, or irritation of the mouth, tongue, lips or throat; in severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur which requires Epinephrine to be administered followed by hospitalization to be monitored closely for any reoccurrence of the allergic reaction. If you experience an allergic reaction, you should stop the antibiotic immediately and speak to your physician. You may be required to take an antihistamine (such as Benadryl) to reverse the effects of the allergic reaction, and your physician will find an alternative, safe antibiotic for you to take.