As a physician with a busy practice, I'm surprised that the same medical myths seem to persist year after year. That's why I'm dedicating a series of posts to debunking some of these once and for all!
Medical Myth 2: Antibiotics can help a cold.
Reality: Colds are caused by viruses, not bacteria, and antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. So if your doctor says no when you beg her for antibiotics to relieve your cold symptoms, she's not being mean! These drugs won't do anything at all to ease your cold, and taking antibiotics when you don't need them promotes the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (like MRSA).
Not sure if you have a cold or a bacterial infection? If your main symptoms are a stuffy nose and sinus congestion, it's probably a cold—so the best Rx is plenty of rest and fluids. If you have a fever, headache, overall pains and more intense exhaustion, it could be bacterial (so see your doctor to find out if you need antibiotics).
I want to hear from you, so e-mail me your questions at email@example.com.
Disclaimer: Your seeking information on health related topics and/or Sandra Adamson Fryhofer, MD’s providing such information herein constitutes neither the solicitation of nor the provision of medical advice, services, care or treatment. Communication with Dr. Fryhofer on this website does not create a doctor/patient relationship. For concerns about your own particular medical condition, you should consult your own medical professional, who can examine and evaluate you. Communication on a website is not a substitute for taking an active role in your own medical care and treatment and being personally seen by a physician of choice in your area.