Bacterial resistance to antibacterial agents is a known problem these days. In an interview with aif.ru (18+), general practitioner Anastasia Salnikova explained why uncontrolled use of these medications is extremely dangerous.
Antibiotics are powerful medications designed to kill bacterial infections. Resistance means that bacteria are able to withstand the effects of drugs that were previously effective at killing them and continue to reproduce.
This is a consequence of incorrect or excessive use of drugs, which provokes natural selection: bacteria that survive after contact with the drug pass on their resistance to their offspring.
“Unfortunately, many patients mistakenly believe that antibiotics are necessary for colds or flu, which are most often caused by viruses. In such cases, antibiotics are not only ineffective, but can also cause harm. Uncontrolled use of these drugs contributes to the development of bacterial resistance, which makes treating infections in the future much more difficult and dangerous,” shared Anastasia Salnikova.
Consequences of resistance: When bacteria become resistant, conventional antibiotics lose their effectiveness. This complicates the choice of an effective method of therapy for serious bacterial infections. Resistant infections may require longer treatment and hospital observation, which negatively affects the patient's health. In some cases, the infection can lead to serious consequences, including death.
Attention! The article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Don't self-medicate! Contact your doctor.
