World Antibiotic Awareness Week: Know 3 harmful effects of antibiotics

Antibiotics are medications that are primarily used in the treatment of bacterial infections. Also known as anti-bacterial, they are identified as one of the most powerful range of drugs that can eliminate and slow down the bacterial growth for treating various diseases caused by bacteria.

However, they remain ineffective in treating viral infections including cold, flu, coughs, etc. and may lead to certain complications if not taken under medical supervision.

According to medical experts, antibiotics are one of the strongest pharmaceutical products that are typically available on medical prescription only. Moreover, they are also associated with side-effects and may even cause allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, especially if taken without medical consultation. In fact, a report by the World Health Organization claims that the misuse of antibiotics in humans (and animals) is accelerating the process of antibiotic resistance.

Here are some of the harmful effects of consuming antibiotics inappropriately:

Digestion problems

Medical professionals claim that the side-effects associated with antibiotic misuse are not life-threatening. However, they can easily hamper the functioning of the human digestive system. Some of the common gut-related conditions reported as an antibiotic side-effect include:

• Upset stomach and diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Indigestion
• Feeling of fullness and stomach bloating
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach cramps and pain

Most of the above-mentioned digestive system ailments fade away as soon as a person stops taking antibiotics. However, people are suggested to consider medical help if the problems persist for an extended period of time.

2. Fungal infections

Antibiotics are primarily aimed to treat bacterial infections and to eliminate harmful bacteria. However, many-a-times these powerful drugs mistakenly kill the good bacteria that safeguards the human body against fungal infections. This can eventually increase one’s risk of developing fungal infections in the mouth, throat and vagina. Here are some symptoms associated with common fungal infections:

• Swelling, soreness and itchiness in the vagina
• Pain and burning sensation during sex or urinating
• Fever and chills
• Thick white coating in the mouth and throat
• Loss of taste
• Cottony feeling in the mouth

People may also experience pain in the throat while eating and swallowing food. Nevertheless, these fungal infections can be treated with anti-fungal medications provided by the pharma manufacturing companies.

3. Other severe side-effects

Prolonged use of antibiotics can also result in uncommon yet severe health problems. Kidney stones, abnormal blood clotting, sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), blood disorders, etc. are some of the associated complications of consuming antibiotics inappropriately or without medical consultation. In some cases, aged people may experience bowel inflammation that can potentially result in bloody diarrhea.

Various studies also suggest that some antibiotics may lead to the staining of the teeth and bones. Thus, it is always suggested that people should use antibiotics manufactured by the top pharmaceutical companies and on a doctor’s prescription only.