What is antibiotic resistance and how does it threaten each of us.

Forecasts come true

Ten years ago, the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics belonged to the category of forecasts. But already in 2014, WHO calls the resistance of bacteria to antibacterial drugs a real danger that lies in wait for residents of all countries and regions. What does it mean? Any of us may face a disease in front of which all existing drugs will be powerless. It can be an infection after a cut, cystitis, tonsillitis – all that we are used to dealing with with antibiotics.

Already today people are dying of infections that used to be easy to treat with antimicrobial agents. Not so long ago, reports appeared in the press that the cause of American death was an infection resistant to 26 antibiotics.

Why is resistance to bacteria?

The widespread spread of bacteria that are immune to antibiotics, and the consolidation of this property provoked people, that is, we are with you.

The constant use of antibiotics leads to the fact that bacteria all the time encounter them and “learn” to survive in a hostile environment. Bacteria divide at tremendous speed, several dozens of generations are replaced per day. They literally evolve before our eyes, transmitting to the offspring those signs that help them maintain their population. When we stop taking antibiotics too quickly (immediately after the disappearance of the symptoms of the disease), then a few weakened bacteria remain in the body, which nevertheless survived and retained information about this enemy. They will transfer this “knowledge” to offspring and bacteria of a different species. As a result, bacteria will have time to “prepare” for the next meeting with this substance. The more antibiotics we use, the more “prepared” the bacteria become.

Today, bacteria “invented” several ways to protect against antibiotics. Some bacteria break down antibiotic molecules. Others have a protective membrane that does not pass the antibiotic into the cell. Some types of bacteria change their own “physiology” in such a way that the antibiotic ceases to be poison for them.

Where is the exit?

In fact, humanity never surrenders. Today, there are several ways to counter the threat of superinfection resistant to all antibiotics. Scientists continue to look for new substances that will be effective in combating pathogenic bacteria. These studies never stop, so that humanity has an antibiotic in stock for extreme cases.

The second way is to reduce the use of antibiotics. Each of us can contribute to this struggle. First of all, you should refuse to prescribe antibiotics for yourself, especially with a cold. Do not take antibiotics “just in case”, even if you are sure that you have correctly diagnosed yourself.

But if you feel that the body is not coping, then go to the doctor, and do not self-medicate. Take antibiotics only as directed by a specialist and in strict accordance with his recommendations. Even if you no longer feel sick, you should finish the course of administration.

Another important step that is available to everyone is competent prevention. You can avoid taking antibiotics if you don’t let the bacteria into your body, especially when there are a lot of them in the surrounding air. Oddly enough, the essential oils of some plants: eucalyptus, juniper, mint, cayeput, will help to cope with bacteria in the air. You can even use ready-made compositions of such oils. It is important that the bacteria do not have time to adapt to essential oils, so you can not be afraid of the development of resistance and use them for a long time. Of course, observing the basic rules of personal hygiene, especially after contact with patients or visiting public places, also reduces the risk of bacterial infection entering your body.

Remember that the future of mankind depends on each person. Including from you. Take care of yourself and your health!