They used to be the solution for all our ills. Go to the doctor back in the 1970’s and 1980’s and you would be likely prescribed an antibiotic. But the truth about antibiotics is very different. We know more now. And doctors have become far less lazy than they used to be. As a man approaching 50, we want to know the truth about antibiotics. Not just for our health, but for our children too. Let’s take a look.
They Have Been Overprescribed
This is at the root of the problem. Antibiotics have been overprescribed in the past. They were seen as a kind of cure-all. It used to be the go-to thing for colds and the flu. But these are not treated by antibiotics at all. Studies have shown people prescribed a placebo healed at exactly the same rate as those who were given antibiotics.
In fact, a cold is caused by a virus. Antibiotics treat bacteria. It’s the wrong thong all round.
The body does heal itself when dealing with a cold. As a man approaching fifty, you are not immediately in one of the danger groups for a cold. Unless you have an underlying health condition, then you should just get better over time. Taking paracetamol can help relieve the symptoms, although you might want to take a Stop & Protect Cold and Sinus Relief such as a Nasal Spray
Problems With Antibiotics
There are some issued when taking antibiotics. When you look at the side of the packet, you will find some side effects, such as –
- Diarrhoea
- Yeast infections
- Skin rashes
- Swelling of the airways (anaphylaxis)
Of course, none of these are desirable. If you haven’t taken a medicine before then you don’t know how your body might react. With anything, you need to ensure the benefits outweigh the potential risks.
Your body might also become resistant to antibiotics. This is a major risk in itself. If you become unwell in the future, perhaps when your body is in a more vulnerable state, then you might need antibiotics to get better. If you have developed a resistance, then they are useless.
The Truth About Antibiotics
It is used to treat tings like MRSA. You might need antibiotics at a serious juncture in your life in the future. If your body is resistant, then you could end up with serious health issues.
We don’t ask our doctors for antibiotics unless it is absolutely necessary. Even then, ypu might not be prescribed them. Let’s keep these powerful medicines for the time when we do need them. If you have any questions, then consult your GP.
