Too Much Of A Good Thing

Dr. Emily Senay On The Problem Of Antibiotics Overuse

(CBS)  Antibiotic drugs are among the most powerful tools available for fighting infections and disease caused by bacteria, and we have come to depend heavily on them to treat a wide range of disease, says Early Show medical correspondent Dr. Emily Senay.

But an estimated 50 million unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions in this country alone each year are contributing to the growth of drug-resistant germs.

The problem is, antibiotics don't work against viruses like colds or flu -- only bacteria. But since viral and bacterial infections often have common symptoms, antibiotics get prescribed needlessly and often. That allows dangerous bacteria get to accustomed to the presence of the drugs. The germs then become resistant over time, and harder to get rid of when they cause infections, Senay explains.

Senay says doctors prescribe antibiotics to be on the safe side if they're not sure of the cause of symptoms such as sore throat, cough, runny nose and fever, which can sometimes be difficult to determine without a lab test.

There are common and potentially serious bacterial infections that do require immediate treatment with antibiotics. Strep throat, pneumonia, sinus and ear infections require medical attention and treatment. These diseases need lab tests for a proper diagnosis, says Senay.

Generally if symptoms are severe or long lasting and appear to be getting worse, it's a sign you may have something more than a cold or an allergy.

Warning Signs:
If symptoms are severe or persistent, seek medical attention. Fever, shaking chills and pain are major warning signs of a serious infection.

And don't ignore minor persistent symptoms like coughing or discharge that don't go away after a couple of weeks. If you are concerned or unsure about an infection, talk to your doctor.

Antibiotic Overuse Prevention:
Don't assume right off the bat that antibiotics can help. Research shows that most antibiotic misuse involves children taking the drugs when they really aren't needed. Many doctors succumb to the pressure of a concerned parent who demands treatment. But most coughs and runny noses will go away on their own without any sort of medication at all.