Врач объяснила, почему антибиотики при лихорадке часто бесполезны и опасны

You shouldn’t take antibiotics for every fever: Doctor explains why this common habit is risky Dr Seema Dhir shares why antibiotics may not be the answer to every fever, cold, and cough – and when you actually need them. A fever usually prompts one immediate thought: “I need an antibiotic.” Fever is not an illness in itself. It indicates that the body is responding to something, and many causes do not need antibiotics. Sometimes antibiotics do more harm than good when used in ignorance of the cause. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Seema Dhir, unit head and senior consultant, internal medicine, Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, revealed why every fever doesn’t require an antibiotic. Also read | Do your hands and feet feel cold even in summer? Here’s what your body could be telling you Fever does not always mean bacterial infection According to Dr Dhir, fever is generally caused by viral infections like flu, the common cold, Covid-19 and other respiratory infections. “Antibiotics fight bacteria, not viruses. Taking them for a viral fever will not make the infection disappear faster,” she added. In many cases, rest as well as plenty of fluids, nutritious food and medicines recommended by a doctor for fever or discomfort are enough. The hidden harm of unnecessary antibiotics Dr Dhir highlighted that antibiotics are powerful medicines, but their unnecessary use can cause side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, allergic reactions and other complications. Antimicrobial resistance can be driven by the frequent or inappropriate use of antibiotics. That happens when bacteria mutate in ways that make drugs less effective. As resistance develops, infections that were once easy to treat can become hard and sometimes dangerous. When antibiotics may actually be needed? According to Dr Dhir, some fevers are due to bacterial infections such as some urinary tract infections, bacterial pneumonia and other serious infections. The decision to use an antibiotic should be based on symptoms, examination and, where necessary, with appropriate tests. A doctor may also consider the age of the person, the person’s medical history and the severity of the illness before prescribing treatment. Why can self-medicating with antibiotics backfire? When fever comes, it is tempting to reach for an antibiotic that worked for a previous illness. But the same symptoms can have very different causes. You could be given the wrong antibiotic, which delays the correct treatment, leads to unnecessary side effects and promotes antibiotic resistance. The choice of antibiotic should be made by a healthcare professional on the basis of the likely infection and, where appropriate, test results. “The aim is not only to bring down the temperature but to find the cause of the fever and treat that. This is a way to make sure antibiotics are used only when they can work and not just assumed to be needed,” Dr Dhir explained. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. - ABOUT THE AUTHORAnukriti SrivastavaAnukriti Srivastava thrives at the intersection of words and voice, where journalism meets storytelling. A digital editor and journalist with over 5 years of experience, she has written across lifestyle, women issues, relationships, entertainment, fashion, and travel. She did her Masters in Broadcast Journalism and has published more than 500+ lifestyle content pieces across platforms. As a former Sub-Editor at HerZindagi, she produced engaging digital content, interviews, and event coverage for a wide audience. She has also contributed as a Webstory Producer with Travel + Leisure, transforming travel experiences into immersive stories for readers who love exploring the world. Beyond writing, Anukriti’s storytelling extends to the microphone. As a voice-over artist, her warm and expressive voice has brought scripts to life across audio platforms, turning simple words into immersive experiences. Her work reflects a deep interest in people, culture, and everyday stories that resonate with readers and listeners alike. She enjoys crafting content that informs, inspires, and sparks curiosity. Away from screens and studios, you’ll find her reading self-help books, listening to music, getting lost in romantic novels, and playing the guitar for a creative reset. For Anukriti, storytelling isn’t just a profession—it’s a way of seeing and sharing the world.Read More Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.