Antibiotics are medicines used to prevent and treat bacterial infections. When used correctly, antibiotics can save lives. However, they can also cause some unwanted and unpleasant side effects. This article explores some of the key side effects that patients should be aware of when taking antibiotics.
ⓘ Disclaimer: The following article is the research work of one of the authors of LAFFAZ for knowledge purposes only. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider in the first place.
Weakened Immune System
One of the most concerning side effects of antibiotics is that they can weaken your immune system. This is because antibiotics don’t discriminate and can kill off ‘good bacteria’ in your gut alongside the bad. This good bacteria helps to keep your immune system functioning properly.
Without these good gut bacteria, your immune system becomes compromised. This means you’re more susceptible to new infections, which is obviously counterproductive when trying to recover from an infection.
Probiotic supplements containing ‘good bacteria‘ are often recommended during and after a course of antibiotics to help restore gut bacteria balance. Eating yoghurt, kefir and fermented foods can also help repopulate good gut bacteria.
Antibiotic-Related Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is a very common side effect of taking antibiotics. Antibiotics change the balance of gut bacteria, which can result in watery stools. This problem often clears up when the course of antibiotics is finished. However, sometimes antibiotics can cause more severe diarrhoea associated with a dangerous condition called ‘C. diff’.
C. diff is an infection caused by the bacteria Clostridioides difficile. It can cause severe, persistent diarrhoea that may recur even after treatment. Older adults being treated with antibiotics for a long time are most at risk. Maintaining good hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of C. diff.
Nausea, Vomiting, and Loss of Appetite
Feeling sick, vomiting, and loss of appetite are other possible side effects of antibiotics. These symptoms are usually temporary and tend to improve once the course of antibiotics is completed.
To help manage antibiotic-related nausea and sickness, take medications as prescribed with food. Eat small, frequent meals and avoid spicy, fatty, or sugary foods. Stay hydrated with water or rehydration drinks. Inform your doctor if nausea or vomiting is severe.
Skin Rashes
Some antibiotics can cause skin rashes, itching, and other allergic reactions in susceptible people. Mild itching or rashes may not require stopping the antibiotic. However, hives, blistered rashes, and peeling skin necessitate immediate medical attention.
To minimise the risks, inform your doctor about any allergies or previous reactions before taking antibiotics. Stop the medication straight away if any signs of significant skin reaction occur. Topical hydrocortisone cream can help relieve itching. Oral antihistamines may also be recommended.
Other Possible Side Effects
Other possible side effects of antibiotics may include:
- Fungal infections: Antibiotics kill good bacteria that help prevent fungal overgrowth, enabling conditions like oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections. A candida infection is a common side effect of antibiotic use, but a simple candida test will pick it up if you suffer from candida overgrowth.
- Tooth discolouration: Tetracycline antibiotics can permanently stain growing children’s teeth if taken while their adult teeth are still developing.
- Kidney problems: Antibiotics can rarely cause interstitial nephritis, which is inflammation of the kidneys. This requires prompt treatment.
- Liver damage: A small number of antibiotics very rarely cause liver injury, so regular blood tests may be needed.
The benefits of antibiotics undoubtedly outweigh the potential risks in most cases. However, understanding the possible side effects can help you minimise problems and know when to seek medical advice. Always complete the full course as directed and be vigilant for any signs of unwanted reactions. Report concerning or long-lasting side effects promptly to your GP.
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