What is antibiotic resistance?
Antibiotics are medications designed to kill bacteria. Over time, some bacteria may adapt and develop mechanisms to resist these medicines, making antibiotics ineffective against them. This phenomenon is known as antibiotic resistance.
Bacteria are microscopic organisms that can enter the human body. While many are harmless or even beneficial, some can cause diseases when they multiply. Before the advent of antibiotics, bacterial infections often led to severe illness. Today, antibiotics make it easier to treat many infections. However, antibiotic resistance has become a significant global concern, leading to infections that are increasingly difficult to treat as standard antibiotics become ineffective.
What causes antibiotic resistance?
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria survive exposure to an antibiotic. These surviving bacteria may develop abilities to:
- Neutralize the effect of the antibiotic
- Expel the antibiotic from their cells
- Mutate in ways that prevent the antibiotic from working
Once bacteria become resistant, they can proliferate and spread, causing infections that are challenging to treat. They can also transfer their resistance to other bacteria. Using antibiotics unnecessarily increases the likelihood of resistance. Hence, antibiotics should be used only when absolutely necessary.
A common example of antibiotic resistance is seen in Staphylococcus aureus (staph bacteria). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a strain that no longer responds to methicillin and related antibiotics, making it difficult to treat.
Who is at risk for antibiotic resistance?
The more antibiotics are used, the higher the chance of resistance developing. This can occur when antibiotics are used to treat viral infections, such as colds or the flu, which are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Misusing antibiotics in these cases can contribute to resistance. Additionally, not completing a prescribed antibiotic course can leave some bacteria alive, which may become resistant.
How antibiotic-resistant infections spread
Resistant bacteria spread like non-resistant bacteria. Infected individuals or carriers can transfer bacteria through touch, air (via sneezing or coughing), food sharing, and sexual contact. Proper hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of all bacterial infections:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Avoid sharing food or beverages
- Practice safe sex
- Use tissues to cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing
- Avoid touching others’ wounds
- Do not share personal items like razors, towels, or brushes
Using plain soap for handwashing is effective; antibacterial soaps do not offer additional benefits and may contribute to resistance.
Symptoms of an antibiotic-resistant infection
Antibiotic-resistant infections can affect various body systems and produce diverse symptoms. However, symptoms alone cannot confirm antibiotic resistance.
Diagnosing antibiotic-resistant infections
Healthcare providers can diagnose resistant infections by taking a sample from the infected area and testing it in a lab to identify the bacteria and determine effective antibiotics. If standard antibiotics fail to improve the infection, resistance may be present.
Treating antibiotic-resistant infections
Treatment varies depending on the specific infection and resistance. Alternative antibiotics may be available, but they might have more side effects or promote further resistance. In some cases, supportive care may be the only option if no effective antibiotics are available.
Preventing antibiotic resistance
Preventing antibiotic resistance involves using antibiotics responsibly:
- Do not take antibiotics for viral infections
- Do not save antibiotics for future use
- Follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course of treatment
- Never use antibiotics prescribed to someone else
Healthcare providers also play a crucial role by prescribing antibiotics only when necessary, targeting specific bacteria, and limiting the duration of treatment.
Public health measures, including reducing antibiotic use in livestock, are essential to combat resistance. Healthcare providers must maintain good hygiene and use infection control methods to prevent the spread of resistant bacteria in healthcare settings.
Key points about antibiotic resistance
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are spreading globally, causing difficult-to-treat infections.
Misuse of antibiotics promotes the growth of resistant bacteria.
Good hygiene practices help prevent the spread of resistant infections.
Next steps for healthcare visits
To make the most of healthcare visits:
- Understand the purpose of your visit and desired outcomes.
- Prepare questions in advance.
- Bring someone with you for support and to help remember information.
- Note new diagnoses, medications, treatments, and instructions provided.
- Understand the purpose and side effects of prescribed treatments.
- Inquire about alternative treatment options.
- Know the reasons and implications of recommended tests or procedures.
- Follow up on appointments and understand their purpose.
- Ensure you have a way to contact your provider with further questions.
By following these guidelines, you can contribute to reducing the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and ensure effective treatment of infections.