Antibiotic Resistance is Impacting More Patients Outside of Hospitals
Antibiotic Resistance is Impacting More Patients Outside of Hospitals: What to Know and How to Fight It
As we head into cold and flu season, many of us will be spending more time indoors and dealing with seasonal illnesses like colds, flu, COVID, strep throat, and sinus infections. It’s the perfect time to talk about antibiotic resistance—a health issue that is increasingly affecting healthy Americans, even outside of hospitals.
What is Antibiotic Resistance?
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of the medications designed to kill them. This doesn’t mean your body is resistant—it’s the bacteria that no longer respond to some kinds of antibiotics, particularly antibiotics that are commonly prescribed first. This can make infections harder to treat and increase the risk of severe illness or even death. Resistant bacteria can spread in the community, potentially causing severe illnesses that don’t respond to standard treatments.
Is Antibiotic-Resistance Only an Issue in Hospitals?
Antibiotic-resistant infections aren’t only found in hospitals. Many infections commonly experienced in the patient community—like strep throat, ear infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs)—can be caused by resistant bacteria, though the prevalence of resistant infections varies. For example, an antibiotic-resistant UTI might require multiple rounds of treatment, increasing the risk of complications.
Even viral illnesses like colds and the flu can indirectly contribute to this problem. Though antibiotics don’t treat viruses, they may be necessary to address secondary bacterial infections that sometimes follow viral illnesses. Understanding the appropriate use of antibiotics is key to keeping these treatments effective.
What Can You Do to Help?
Here’s how you can make a difference in the fight against antibiotic resistance:
- Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics
Antibiotics are effective only against bacterial infections, not viruses like colds or the flu. Using them incorrectly can contribute to resistance. Always consult your primary care physician to determine if antibiotics are needed. If they say antibiotics aren’t appropriate in your case, ask questions to understand why. - Complete Prescribed Courses
If you’re prescribed antibiotics, take the full course, even if you feel better before finishing. Stopping early can leave some of the bacteria alive, giving them a chance to become resistant and potentially requiring additional courses of treatment. - Prevent Illnesses in the First Place
Stay up-to-date on vaccinations, including the flu shot, to reduce your risk of illness and the need for antibiotics. Practice good hygiene, like washing hands frequently and covering your mouth when you cough.
Want more tips to prevent cold and flu illnesses? MPCP Bowie’s Dr. Warden-Jarrett was recently featured on Fox 5 DC to talk about how to keep your family safe this season. Watch Dr. Warden-Jarrett on Fox 5 DC
Stay Informed
Educate yourself and your family members about antibiotic resistance and its risks. When you’re informed, you can make better health decisions and advocate for appropriate antibiotic use for yourself and your family.
