Do I Need an Antibiotic?

Antibiotics, while beneficial, should be taken with caution. Read on to learn more about what antibiotics are and which illnesses and infections they can treat.

What are Antibiotics?

Antibiotics are powerful medications that help our bodies fight off diseases caused by bacteria. When used appropriately, they quickly and effectively eliminate infections, helping us feel better within days. Unfortunately, bacteria are adaptable and the overuse of antibiotics has helped create strains of bacteria that have grown resistant to antibiotics. Plus, overuse of antibiotics also can kill off healthy bacteria in your body and may let harmful germs take over. Antibiotics aren’t effective against viruses, such as the cold and flu. Unlike bacteria, viruses typically require a vaccination to prevent them in the first place or antiviral drugs to treat them.

Here are some conditions that may require an antibiotic:

• Ear infection
• Sinus infection
• Sore throat
• Urinary tract infection

To determine if you need an antibiotic, we may order blood or urine tests or a spinal culture to help pinpoint a viral or bacterial infection. Although your symptoms may subside in a matter of days, continue taking the antibiotic as prescribed. Otherwise, bacteria will continue to grow, which will prolong the infection.

Family Medicine and Primary Care

At Lakeview Family Medicine, we’re a full service clinic that specializes in family medicine. Some of our services include treatment for allergies, high cholesterol, hypertension, and even depression. Choosing the right physician for your family is important. You want someone you can trust with a wide variety of medical problems. You also want someone who treats you like family. We make it a point to sit down with all of our patients to talk about their needs and their health goals. We promise to really listen to you.