February 10, 2006

The Best Wealth is Your Health

Antibiotics: Unnecessary Use Can Be Harmful

By Dr. Meena Sathappan
Special to the Times

“The desire to take medicine is the greatest feature that distinguishes man from animals,” said Sir William Osler, a distinguished Physician who is also one of the greatest icons of modern medicine.

Antibiotics are among the most powerful and important medicines known. When used properly they can save lives, but used improperly, they can actually harm your child. Antibiotics should not be used to treat viral infections.

Bacteria and Viruses
There are two main types of germs- bacteria and viruses- that cause most infections. In fact, viruses cause most coughs and sore throats and colds. Bacteria cause some types of ear and sinus infections. Antibiotics cure bacterial infection, but not common viral infections. A child recovers from the common viral infections, once the illness has run its course.

Resistant Bacteria and how they become resistant
New strains of bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics. The antibiotic does not kill these bacteria. Some of these resistant bacteria can be treated with more powerful medicines, which may need to be given by vein (IV) in the hospital, and a few are already untreatable. The more antibiotics are prescribed, the higher the chance that your child will be infected with resistant bacteria.

Each time we take antibiotics, sensitive bacteria are killed, but resistant ones may be left to grow and multiply. Repeated and improper use of antibiotics is some of the main causes of the increase in resistant bacteria. These resistant bacteria can also be spread to others in the family and community.

When are Antibiotics needed, and when are they not?
This is a complex question and is best answered by your Doctor. Moreover, the answer depends on the specific diagnosis. Below are a few examples:

Ear Infections: There are several types; most need antibiotics, but some don’t.

Sinus Infections: Most children with thick or green mucus do not have sinus infections. Antibiotics are needed for some long lasting or severe cases.

Cough or Bronchitis: Children rarely need antibiotics for bronchitis.

Sore Throat: viruses cause most cases. Only one main kind, “strep throat”, requires antibiotics. This kind must be diagnosed by a laboratory test.

Colds: Colds are caused by viruses and may sometimes last for two weeks or more. Antibiotics have no effect on colds, but your Doctor may have suggestions for comfort measures while the illness runs its course.

The infection may change
Viral infections may sometimes lead to bacterial infections. But treating viral infections with antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections does not work, and may lead to infection with resistant bacteria. Keep your Doctor informed if the illness gets worse or lasts a long time, so that proper treatment can be given, as needed.

So, here are some frequently answered questions:

What can I do to protect my child from antibiotic-resistant bacteria?
Use antibiotics only when your Doctor has determined that they might be effective. Antibiotics will not cure most colds, coughs, sore throats, or running noses – children fight off colds on their own.

If mucus from the nose changes from clear to yellow or green, does this mean that my child needs an antibiotic?
Yellow or green mucus does not mean that your child has a bacterial infection. It is normal for the mucus to get thick and change color during a viral cold.

Does this mean I should never give my child antibiotics?
Antibiotics are very powerful medicines, and should be used to treat bacterial infections. If an antibiotic is prescribed, make sure you take the entire course and never save antibiotics for later use.

How do I know that my child has a viral or bacterial infection?
Ask your Doctor. If you think that your child might need treatment, you should contact your Doctor. But remember, colds are caused by viruses, and should not be treated with antibiotics.

Take the right medication when needed, and stay healthy!

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics

Dr. Meena Sathappan is a board-certified Pediatrician who lives and practices in Evergreen. She is available for questions and consultation at Aasha Pediatrics, 2060 Aborn Road, # 230, San Jose, CA 95121 (corner of Aborn Road and Capitol Expressway). You can call her at 408-274-9099, or e-mail her at msathappan@gmail.com. Website: www.aashapediatrics.com.