Health Tip: Get the Facts About Antibiotics

(HealthDay News) — Antibiotics aren’t always what you or your child needs to get well.

The American Academy of Pediatrics explains:

An antibiotic will not help the common cold, which is caused by a virus. Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections, not those caused by viruses or other germs.
Overuse of an antibiotic could lead to bacteria that becomes resistant to that medication. That’s why an antibiotic should never be used unless necessary.
An antibiotic could cause mild side effects, such as diarrhea.
Green or yellow mucus can signal a viral infection or a bacterial infection. Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days accompanied by fever may mean a bacterial infection.
Not all ear infections need an antibiotic. Many will go away without treatment. Ask your doctor about this.
Most sore throats are caused by a virus, but strep throat does need an antibiotic.
An antibiotic usually starts working within three days, so call your doctor if you don’t see an improvement by then.
Never share an antibiotic with anyone, take it exactly as directed and always finish the prescription even if you feel better.