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When are
antibiotics necessary?
Your doctor can best answer this
complicated question and the answer depends on the diagnosis. Here are a few
examples:
-
Ear
infections: There are several types; many need antibiotics, but
some do not.
-
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 major kind, "strep throat," requires
antibiotics. This condition must be diagnosed by a laboratory test.
-
Colds:
Colds are caused by viruses and may last for two weeks or longer.
Antibiotics have no effect on colds, but your doctor may have suggestions
for obtaining comfort while the illness runs its course.
It is worth noting that viral
infections sometimes lead to bacterial infections. But treating viral
infections with antibiotics will not prevent bacterial infections and may
trigger infections with resistant bacteria. Keep your doctor informed if the
illness gets worse, or lasts a long time, so that the proper treatment can
be given as needed. |
