Antibiotics are a group of medicines that are used to treat infections caused by viruses and have very successful results. Incorrect antibiotic use not only does not provide any benefit, but also invites many health problems such as obesity, liver and kidney failure in children. Therefore, unnecessary use of antibiotics is not recommended by experts.
Antibiotics are also used in adults for infections caused by viruses. The harms of misuse of antibiotics can cause serious health problems. However, it is not always clear whether a particular infection is viral or bacterial. It is therefore essential to consult a pediatric infectious diseases department before using antibiotics, especially in children.
Antibiotics are not self-administered medicines for people who are ill. They do not belong to the group of medicines that reduce fever, relieve pain and relieve malaise. In addition, fever can be a symptom of an infection in the body. However, not every fever is a sign of infection and not every infection may be caused by bacteria, they are not innocent drugs and cause serious side effects when used incorrectly. We can list the problems caused by unnecessary antibiotic use as follows;
Serious allergic reactions may occur: These allergic reactions can develop as a simple itching or skin rash and can lead to fatal consequences.
It may impair liver function: Side effects can be monitored with blood tests called liver function tests. Those with liver disease should stay away from antibiotics that will react in the liver.
Can cause kidney failure: It can trigger organ failure by having toxic effects on the kidneys. At least one in 5 cases of acute kidney failure develops due to the drugs administered.
It can cause antibiotic-associated diarrhea: Normally, there are more than 500 types of bacteria in the intestines and these do not cause discomfort but are beneficial. Taking antibiotics can lead to the death of viruses in this normal flora and the growth of opportunistic bacteria, which can lead to conditions such as diarrhea.
It can cause obesity: Recent studies have shown that obesity is more common in people who use antibiotics more frequently, especially in infancy and childhood.
It can damage the intestinal system: Among the side effects of the digestive system other than diarrhea; symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain can also be seen.
What should be considered when using antibiotics?
It is important to replace friendly bacteria for the general health system. Replacing the friendly bacteria in the intestinal flora becomes possible by consuming probiotic-based foods during and after antibiotic medication. Probiotic-based foods include foods such as home-made yogurt, kefir, pickled salad and sauerkraut. However, if there are problems in the consumption of probiotic-based foods, probiotic supplements can be used with the approval of a specialist. Apart from these, we can list some rules to be considered when using antibiotics as follows;
- It is not appropriate to use outside of doctor's control. The person should not use it on his/her own or with information he/she has heard from outside.
- Antibiotics should be taken in bacterial diseases.
- Antibiotics are not effective in diseases such as colds and flu.
- Do not use antibiotics just because someone in your close circle has taken them with similar symptoms and they are good for your health problems.
- Try to take the full dose recommended by the specialist at the prescribed time. For example, do not continue taking it for longer than the time recommended by your doctor or stop taking it because you feel better. Taking a break from treatment or skipping doses can cause viruses to develop resistance. In addition, treatment may fail and the condition may recur.
- While taking antibiotic medication, the body becomes sensitive to UV rays, this should not be skipped, sun and solarium should be avoided. If the individual is pregnant, allergic, breastfeeding mother and taking a different medication, these situations should definitely be reported to the doctor.
What are the Side Effects of Antibiotic Use?
As a result of incorrect and unnecessary use of antibiotics, important health problems can also develop. Some people may also develop antibiotic allergy, which can cause difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, loss of consciousness, sudden drop in blood pressure and skin breakdown. The side effects of antibiotic use can also invite some health problems;
- Intense weight loss
- Stomach ulcer
- Cracks at the edge of the lips
- Deterioration in appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Digestive difficulties