Antibiotics don't cure coughs and colds!

On the news this morning there was a report from the Health Protection Agency that a quarter of people wrong believe that antibiotics work on most coughs and colds. To read more about the story click here for a link to the BBC Health Website.

I am not sure that is completely accurate for our patients though. The practice has always been a low prescriber of antibiotics for coughs and cold and I think that one of the 'cultural norms' of our patients is that they are not expecting a prescription for antibiotics, they just want to be checked that it is not our their chest. Anyway the Health Protection Authority has produced a list of helpful tips:
  • Most coughs and colds get better on their own - antibiotics will not speed recovery
  • Coughing up phlegm on its own is not a reason to need an antibiotic - even if it is yellow
  • A sore throat plus runny nose with phlegm suggests the infection is less likely to respond to antibiotics
  • A high temperature, red throat and feeling really ill means you may need an antibiotic
  • If you feel able to stop taking them early, you may well not have needed them
  • Always take all doses for as long as instructed
  • Never keep any leftovers - what's prescribed for one infection might not work for the next
  • GPs can give a delayed antibiotic prescription for you to take only if things get worse
  • In cases of severe illness, antibiotics can save lives

Good tips if you are wondering whether to come and see us because you think an antibiotic might help!

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