How to ensure you’re not becoming resistant to antibiotics
Antibiotic resistance mainly occurs due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics.
Learn about antibiotic resistance, how it develops, its impact on health (Source: Freepik) Antibiotic resistance is starting to become a major global health issue. But do you understand what it is?
The phenomenon occurs when bacteria evolve to withstand the effects of antibiotics. This makes once-effective treatments for bacterial infections useless, leading to longer, more complicated illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and even death.
Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria are harder to treat, spread more easily, and may require more toxic and expensive treatments. If the rise of antibiotic resistance continues, even common medical procedures like surgeries or cancer treatments could become life-threatening due to the inability to control infections, said Dr Ajay Agarwal, Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Fortis Hospital, Noida.
The causes of antibiotic resistance
Antibiotic resistance mainly occurs due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. When antibiotics are used unnecessarily or not taken as prescribed, bacteria are exposed to these drugs, giving them a chance to adapt and develop resistance. These resistant bacteria can then multiply and spread to others, making future infections harder to treat.
Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant in Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explains that while completely stopping antibiotic resistance is unlikely due to the natural evolution of microorganisms, there are ways to slow its rise. This can be achieved by reducing the unnecessary use of antibiotics in humans and animals, strengthening infection prevention practices in healthcare, investing in research for new antibiotics and alternative treatments, and promoting global health policies to regulate antibiotic use.
While we may not be able to stop antibiotic resistance completely, we can take steps to prevent it from worsening. (file)
Might result in dangerous consequences
As Dr Agarwal emphasises, one of the most dreaded complications of antibiotic resistance is the reduction of effective treatment options. The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has led to fewer available antibiotics to treat infections, forcing healthcare providers to use less effective or more toxic treatments. This situation has been compounded by the slow development of new antibiotics, with only a small number of new drugs approved for the treatment of multidrug-resistant infections.
AMR also puts at risk vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. If unchecked, AMR can lead to the spread of deadly infections, increased disability, and death. Dr Agarwal stresses that improper use of antibiotics, both in humans and in the food industry, contributes significantly to the problem. Antibiotics are often used excessively in livestock, leading to the development of resistant bacteria that can transfer to humans.
How can we prevent it?
While we may not be able to stop antibiotic resistance completely, we can take steps to prevent it from worsening. Here are some important strategies, as advised by Dr Tayal:
- Use Antibiotics Responsibly: Only take antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional, and always complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better.
- Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics: Don’t request antibiotics for viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing, proper food handling, and maintaining good hygiene can help prevent infections and reduce the need for antibiotics.
- Get Vaccinated: Stay up to date with vaccines to prevent infections that may require antibiotics.
- Avoid Antibiotic Overuse in Animals: Choose food products from sources that do not use antibiotics excessively in animal feed, as this practice can promote antibiotic resistance in humans.
- Support Global Efforts: Advocate for global initiatives aimed at regulating antibiotic use, improving infection control, and investing in the research and development of new antibiotics.
Dr Agarwal highlights that new approaches, such as the development of combinational drug therapies, nanoparticles-based formulations, and antimicrobial biomaterials, are being explored to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens. However, without widespread public awareness and coordinated action, the battle against superbugs and antibiotic resistance will continue to be a major global challenge.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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