- By: Brian Syuki
Over the years, you have likely taken antibiotics many times to address various ailments and infections. However, several ideas you hold about these drugs and antibiotic resistance might be incorrect.
When the World Health Organization (WHO) polled roughly 10,000 individuals across 12 nations, they discovered that misunderstandings regarding antibiotic resistance were widespread in every country. Such false notions can lead to unwise decisions that endanger your well-being. Therefore, it is essential to keep the following myths in mind whenever you consider using antibiotics.
MYTH #1 YOU CAN DISCONTINUE ANTIBIOTICS ONCE YOU START FEELING BETTER.
Have you ever cut short a course of antibiotics before finishing all prescribed doses because your symptoms improved? If so, you are far from alone. According to the WHO report, 32 percent of those surveyed believed it was acceptable to stop taking antibiotics after feeling better.
If you stop early, the infection may return because it may not have been fully eradicated. Always complete the entire prescribed course, even after you start feeling well.
MYTH #2 ANTIBIOTICS ARE EFFECTIVE FOR TREATING THE COMMON COLD.
Some people view antibiotics as a universal remedy for every infection, but the reality is that they only combat bacterial, fungal, and certain parasitic infections. They have no effect on viral illnesses, such as colds and influenza.
MYTH #3 YOU SHOULD TAKE ANTIBIOTICS TO AVOID INFECTIONS.
Although antibiotics can help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), it is not recommended to take them when you are not actually infected.
The Mayo Clinic warns that improper use of antibiotics raises the likelihood of antibiotic resistance. Refrain from taking antibiotics when you are healthy.
MYTH #4 IT IS SAFE TO USE LEFT OVER ANTIBIOTICS.
Consuming leftover antibiotics is dangerous because you may not be taking the correct drug for your current infection. Moreover, some antibiotics—especially liquid forms—lose their effectiveness over time.
Rather than stockpiling antibiotics at home, obtain an accurate prescription from your physician.
MYTH #5 ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE MEANS YOUR BODY NO LONGER RESPONDS TO ANTIBIOTICS.
Seventy-six percent of the WHO survey participants mistakenly believed that antibiotic resistance happens when the body stops reacting to antibiotics. In truth, it is the bacteria that become resistant to these drugs. Consequently, they multiply and spread disease.
MYTH #6 IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE
You have more influence over antibiotic resistance than you might realize. You can lower your risk by avoiding the misuse of antibiotics. Do not use leftover medications or take antibiotics prescribed for someone else.
Practicing good hygiene can also help protect against infections that are resistant to antibiotics.
MYTH #7 ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE AFFECTS ONLY PEOPLE WHO TAKE ANTIBIOTICS FREQUENTLY.
Although misusing antibiotics does heighten your personal risk of resistance, everyone is vulnerable. You can contract an antibiotic-resistant infection even if you have never taken antibiotics.
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Which of these antibiotic myths have you encountered being circulated?
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