Antibiotics have saved countless lives and remain one of the most important tools in modern medicine. However, they are not a cure-all. Knowing when antibiotics are helpful and when they are not can protect your health, prevent unnecessary side effects, and reduce the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.
Here is what you should know about how antibiotics work and when they are truly needed.
What Are Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are medications designed to kill bacteria or stop bacteria from growing. They are used to treat bacterial infections such as certain types of pneumonia, strep throat, urinary tract infections, and some skin infections.
Antibiotics do not treat viruses. This distinction is critical because many common illnesses are caused by viruses, not bacteria.
When Antibiotics Help
Antibiotics are effective for bacterial infections, including:
- Strep throat
- Certain ear infections
- Bacterial sinus infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Some cases of pneumonia
- Certain skin and soft tissue infections
When prescribed appropriately, antibiotics can shorten illness, prevent complications, and help you recover more quickly.
When Antibiotics Do Not Help
Antibiotics do not work against viral infections. Common viral illnesses include:
- Colds
- Flu
- COVID-19
- Most sore throats
- Most cases of bronchitis
- Many sinus infections
Taking antibiotics for these conditions will not make you feel better and can actually cause harm.
Why Taking Antibiotics When You Do Not Need Them Is a Problem
Using antibiotics unnecessarily contributes to antibiotic resistance. This happens when bacteria adapt and become harder to kill, making future infections more difficult to treat.
Unnecessary antibiotic use can also lead to:
- Upset stomach or diarrhea
- Allergic reactions
- Yeast infections
- Disruption of healthy gut bacteria
Protecting the effectiveness of antibiotics benefits both you and the community.
How Providers Decide If You Need Antibiotics
Healthcare providers consider several factors when determining whether antibiotics are appropriate, including:
- Your symptoms and how long they have lasted
- Physical exam findings
- Your medical history
- Rapid tests or lab results, when indicated
In some cases, a “watch and wait” approach is recommended, especially if symptoms suggest a viral infection that is likely to improve on its own.
What You Can Do as a Patient
Trust your provider’s recommendation if antibiotics are not prescribed.
- Do not pressure providers for antibiotics.
- If antibiotics are prescribed, take them exactly as directed and finish the full course unless instructed otherwise.
- Never share antibiotics or use leftover medication.
Supporting your body with rest, hydration, over-the-counter symptom relief, and proper nutrition is often the best treatment for viral illnesses.
When to Seek Medical Care
You should seek medical evaluation if you experience:
- High or persistent fever
- Worsening symptoms after several days
- Shortness of breath
- Severe pain
- Signs of dehydration
These may indicate a more serious infection or a complication that needs further assessment.
If you are feeling sick and unsure whether antibiotics are appropriate, the team at Marque Urgent Care is here to help. Our providers can evaluate your symptoms, perform testing when needed, and recommend the right treatment plan.
Walk in or reserve your spot today to get clear answers and the care you need.