Do I Need Antibiotics?

We owe a lot of our health to the development of antibiotics! Before antibiotics were invented, 30% of all deaths recorded in the United States were due to bacterial infections.

Suffering from a bacterial infection today is thankfully not as dire. Antibiotics are a wonderful tool to help stop infections in their tracks and can stop severe infection from taking hold.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Easley sees many common infections come through our doors, and we offer some advice on antibiotic use below.

How Quickly Do Antibiotics Work?

In order to get an antibiotic prescription, you will need to be evaluated by a medical professional. Once it is determined that you are suffering from a bacterial infection, antibiotics get to work right away and attack the dangerous bacteria.

It slowly stalls its growth or kills it off, getting you back on the path to wellness. It can take a day or two to feel better, but relief should be quick after that. An antibiotic prescription is typically seven to 14 days and should be taken in its entirety. Below are some infections that antibiotics are usually prescribed for.

Common Infections

  • UTI (urinary tract infection)
  • Strep throat
  • Ear or sinus infections
  • Bacterial pneumonias

Should I Be Worried About Antibiotic Resistance?

Ever since antibiotics were developed, infections that were easily treatable have become resistant to treatment over time. This happens because any bacteria that remains after the round of antibiotics adapts and becomes more resilient once it is passed from person to person.

Abusing antibiotic use also contributes to this issue, so responsible use of them is very important.

Tips for Using Antibiotics

  • Use them on bacterial infections only.
  • Take only the right antibiotic for the infection you have.
  • Only take antibiotics prescribed by a medical professional.
  • Take the entire regimen, even when your symptoms start to improve.

Antibiotics are a great tool when used appropriately! If you think you need a prescription for an infection you have, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Easley.