When Should I Ask My Provider for an Antibiotic?

Cough and congestion got you down? As science has changed, we know more about diseases causing sickness and how you should be treated has changed.

As winter approaches and we all start huddling inside until spring, many of us will develop cough or cold symptoms which can make a hard time of the year even harder. In the past, you may have gone to your provider and were given an antibiotic to feel better, but as science has changed, we know more about the diseases that cause these sicknesses and how you should be treated has changed.

What Are Viruses & Bacteria?

Viruses are tiny germs that are not alive on their own. They need to get inside your body’s cells to make more viruses. Some common viruses that cause upper respiratory infections are the cold virus, flu virus, and COVID-19.

Bacteria are living germs that can grow and multiply on their own. Some bacteria are helpful, but others can make you sick. Bacteria like Streptococcus and Haemophilus influenzae can cause infections in your throat, ears, or sinus area.

How Do Symptoms Compare?

Both viral and bacterial infections can cause:

• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Fever

But there are some key differences:

• Viral infections usually start slowly and go away in about a week. The fever is usually mild.
• Bacterial infections can start suddenly or happen after a viral infection. They often last longer than 10 days and can get worse over time. The fever is usually higher.

How Are These Illnesses Diagnosed & Treated?

Your primary care provider will look at your symptoms and how long you’ve been sick to figure out what kind of infection you have. Sometimes they do tests, like a throat swab or a scan, to be sure.

Viral infections don’t need antibiotics. You just need rest, fluids, and medicine to help with symptoms like fever or pain.

Bacterial infections may need antibiotics to help your body fight the germs. You still need rest and fluids too.

Based on your medical history and other diseases, your provider may discuss starting an antibiotic to prevent worse disease. People with heart or lung disease may be given an antibiotic even if the symptoms seem like they are caused by viruses.

How Can You Prevent Them in the First Place?

You can help stop the spread of viruses and bacteria by:

• Washing your hands often
• Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze
• Staying home when you’re sick
• Getting vaccines like the flu shot or COVID-19 shot.

Providers also try not to give antibiotics unless they’re really needed. This helps stop bacteria from becoming resistant, which makes it harder to effectively treat an illness in the future.

Even though viral and bacterial infections can seem the same, they are different in how they start, how long they last, and how they are treated. Knowing the difference helps providers give the right care and helps you feel better faster. It also helps keep everyone healthier by using medicine wisely and only when it will best help you.

By Bastian Fagginger-Auer, FNP-C, primary care provider at True Care Vermont.