Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Birth Control Pills Could Reduce The Risk Of Ovarian Cancer By 43%, Claims Study

Ovarian cancer is still one of the most challenging gynecological cancers, often diagnosed at an advanced stage because of the elusive nature of its symptoms. Even with the progress of medical research, the mortality rate of late-stage ovarian cancer continues to be appallingly low, thus necessitating prevention and early detection of the disease. The health of women, especially <span>reproductive health</span>, largely determines the risk factors of ovarian cancer. From genetic susceptibility to lifestyle habits, a variety of factors affect vulnerability to the disease.

Amidst continuing research into preventive measures, an interesting discovery has been made—birth control pills, which have been used for decades for birth control and hormone regulation, may provide a remarkable protective benefit against ovarian cancer. A pioneering study indicates that women who use <span>oral contraceptives</span> over the age of 45 may lower their risk for developing ovarian cancer by a staggering 43%. This finding not only redefines the debate surrounding reproductive health but also highlights the larger significance of hormonal control in the prevention of disease. But how does birth control impact cancer risk, and what does this portend for women around the world? Here's what the new research shows.

Australian research published in the International Journal of Gynaecological Cancer indicates that these contraceptives could provide a further, life-saving advantage: a major decrease in the risk of ovarian cancer. The research examined data from 221,732 women between the ages of 37 and 73, looking at almost 3,000 varied characteristics concerning health, use of medication, diet, lifestyle, metabolic and hormonal conditions. During a follow-up duration of almost 13 years, 1,441 of the women were found to have ovarian cancer. The results indicated that women who ever used <span>birth control pills</span> had 26% decreased risk of having ovarian cancer. Even more surprisingly, those taking oral contraceptives after age 45 had a 43% decrease in risk.

<h2>Why Ovarian Cancer Remains a Major Concern?</h2>

Ovarian cancer is among the most lethal types of gynecologic cancer and is usually diagnosed at a late stage. About 70% of ovarian cancer is diagnosed only after the disease has advanced considerably. If diagnosed at a late stage, the five-year survival rate is less than 30%. Early detection raises the survival rate to more than 90%.

Given that ovarian cancer produces no overt signs, prevention and risk-reduction are the way to go. The results from the study propose that birth control pills could represent a valuable safety measure that changes the course for preventing ovarian cancer in the years to come. 

<h2>How Do Birth Control Pills Reduce <span rel="noindex">Ovarian Cancer Risk</span>?</h2>

Oral contraceptives include artificial forms of estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that control ovulation. Studies indicate that decreasing the frequency of ovulation is a major factor in decreasing the risk of ovarian cancer. Women who ovulate fewer times over the course of their lives are exposed to lower doses of hormones that can lead to cancerous cell development.

Research shows that the use of birth control pills for five or more years could reduce ovarian cancer risk by as much as 50%. Amazingly, the protective effects can continue for as long as 25 years after the pill has been discontinued. In fact, some research suggests that oral contraceptives might also offer protection for women who carry BRCA genetic mutations, which already place them at high risk for ovarian cancer.

<h2>Other Cancer-Related Effects of Birth Control Pills</h2>

Although the study points to oral contraceptives' advantages of lowering the risk of ovarian cancer, scientists have also investigated how they affect other cancers.

<h4>Lower Risk of Endometrial Cancer</h4>

Women who use oral contraceptives can also lower their risk of uterine cancer. The research mentioned that at least four years of birth control pills can cut the risk of uterine cancer in half, and this benefit can extend up to 10 years after stopping.

<h4>Slightly Elevated Risk of Breast and Cervical Cancer</h4>

On the other hand, some studies have indicated that long-term use of oral contraceptives increases the risk of breast and cervical cancer slightly. Again, this risk is minimal and loses its elevation after five years of discontinuing the pill. Moreover, since the majority of women use birth control pills during their 20s, 30s, and early 40s—years when they have a low baseline risk for cancer—the overall effect is tiny.

<h2>Other Important Factors Determining Cancer Risk</h2>

Oral contraceptives can be involved in lowering ovarian and endometrial cancer risk, but they are not the sole determining factors. A number of lifestyle and genetic factors also determine cancer risk.

Cervical cancer is more associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infections than with birth control pills. Thus, being vaccinated against HPV and receiving regular screenings continue to be important in reducing cervical cancer risk.

Other cancer risk factors are obesity, reproductive history, and family genetics. Keeping fit, being aware of hormonal fluctuations, and frequently visiting healthcare providers for individualized risk evaluations can have a considerable influence on <span>cancer prevention</span>.

For women who wish to make responsible choices regarding their reproductive lives, it is important to discuss with their healthcare providers the advantages and disadvantages of oral contraceptives. As scientific knowledge continues to improve, birth control pills can not only be a contraceptive but a potent cancer prevention tool.

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reproductive health

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hormonal contraception

cancer prevention

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Ovarian cancer is still one of the most challenging gynecological cancers, often diagnosed at an advanced stage because of the elusive nature of its symptoms. Even with the progress of medical research, the mortality rate of late-stage ovarian cancer continues to be appallingly low, thus necessitating prevention and early detection of the disease. The health of women, especially reproductive health, largely determines the risk factors of ovarian cancer. From genetic susceptibility to lifestyle habits, a variety of factors affect vulnerability to the disease.Amidst continuing research into preventive measures, an interesting discovery has been made—birth control pills, which have been used for decades for birth control and hormone regulation, may provide a remarkable protective benefit against ovarian cancer. A pioneering study indicates that women who use oral contraceptives over the age of 45 may lower their risk for developing ovarian cancer by a staggering 43%. This finding not only redefines the debate surrounding reproductive health but also highlights the larger significance of hormonal control in the prevention of disease. But how does birth control impact cancer risk, and what does this portend for women around the world? Here's what the new research shows.Australian research published in the International Journal of Gynaecological Cancer indicates that these contraceptives could provide a further, life-saving advantage: a major decrease in the risk of ovarian cancer. The research examined data from 221,732 women between the ages of 37 and 73, looking at almost 3,000 varied characteristics concerning health, use of medication, diet, lifestyle, metabolic and hormonal conditions. During a follow-up duration of almost 13 years, 1,441 of the women were found to have ovarian cancer. The results indicated that women who ever used birth control pills had 26% decreased risk of having ovarian cancer. Even more surprisingly, those taking oral contraceptives after age 45 had a 43% decrease in risk.Why Ovarian Cancer Remains a Major Concern?Ovarian cancer is among the most lethal types of gynecologic cancer and is usually diagnosed at a late stage. About 70% of ovarian cancer is diagnosed only after the disease has advanced considerably. If diagnosed at a late stage, the five-year survival rate is less than 30%. Early detection raises the survival rate to more than 90%.Given that ovarian cancer produces no overt signs, prevention and risk-reduction are the way to go. The results from the study propose that birth control pills could represent a valuable safety measure that changes the course for preventing ovarian cancer in the years to come. How Do Birth Control Pills Reduce Ovarian Cancer Risk?Oral contraceptives include artificial forms of estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that control ovulation. Studies indicate that decreasing the frequency of ovulation is a major factor in decreasing the risk of ovarian cancer. Women who ovulate fewer times over the course of their lives are exposed to lower doses of hormones that can lead to cancerous cell development.Research shows that the use of birth control pills for five or more years could reduce ovarian cancer risk by as much as 50%. Amazingly, the protective effects can continue for as long as 25 years after the pill has been discontinued. In fact, some research suggests that oral contraceptives might also offer protection for women who carry BRCA genetic mutations, which already place them at high risk for ovarian cancer.Other Cancer-Related Effects of Birth Control PillsAlthough the study points to oral contraceptives' advantages of lowering the risk of ovarian cancer, scientists have also investigated how they affect other cancers.Lower Risk of Endometrial CancerWomen who use oral contraceptives can also lower their risk of uterine cancer. The research mentioned that at least four years of birth control pills can cut the risk of uterine cancer in half, and this benefit can extend up to 10 years after stopping.Slightly Elevated Risk of Breast and Cervical CancerOn the other hand, some studies have indicated that long-term use of oral contraceptives increases the risk of breast and cervical cancer slightly. Again, this risk is minimal and loses its elevation after five years of discontinuing the pill. Moreover, since the majority of women use birth control pills during their 20s, 30s, and early 40s—years when they have a low baseline risk for cancer—the overall effect is tiny.Other Important Factors Determining Cancer RiskOral contraceptives can be involved in lowering ovarian and endometrial cancer risk, but they are not the sole determining factors. A number of lifestyle and genetic factors also determine cancer risk.HPV and Cervical CancerCervical cancer is more associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infections than with birth control pills. Thus, being vaccinated against HPV and receiving regular screenings continue to be important in reducing cervical cancer risk.Lifestyle and GeneticOther cancer risk factors are obesity, reproductive history, and family genetics. Keeping fit, being aware of hormonal fluctuations, and frequently visiting healthcare providers for individualized risk evaluations can have a considerable influence on cancer prevention.For women who wish to make responsible choices regarding their reproductive lives, it is important to discuss with their healthcare providers the advantages and disadvantages of oral contraceptives. As scientific knowledge continues to improve, birth control pills can not only be a contraceptive but a potent cancer prevention tool.

birth control pills could reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 43%, claims study

Aarushi Bhadury

The Tell-Tale Early Sign Of Dementia That You Spot On Paper

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<span>Dementia</span> is a general term that is used to define a multitude of cognitive degenerative illnesses like Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer's disease, etc. Alzheimer’s diseases is the most common form of dementia and while researchers have been looking for ways to treat it, there still is no way to cure it completely, the only way to treat dementia is by managing its symptoms. 

<h2>Lesser-known Symptom of Dementia </h2>

Doctors often talk about common signs of dementia, like memory loss. But an expert says a lesser-known symptom could appear in something as simple as a birthday card, potentially being one of the first signs of Alzheimer's disease. 

If someone starts having trouble reading and writing, especially if they never did before, it could be an early sign of a certain condition. This idea is backed up by a 2020 study published in the Intelligent Data Analysis, which explains that some conditions affect how your brain and muscles work, leading to memory issues and confusion. Since writing involves both your brain and muscle control, it's often one of the first things to change, becoming shaky and harder to read over time. 

<h2>Other Subtle Signs to Watch For </h2>

Besides changes in handwriting also highlight some other less obvious, but important, signs of dementia that you should keep an eye out for. These can include a loved one no longer enjoying foods they used to like or starting to shuffle their feet when they walk. You might also notice them using the wrong words when they speak, frequently being late for things, forgetting names and faces of people they know well, or even getting lost in places that are familiar to them. 

<h2>What to Do If You Notice Changes </h2>

If you start to see any of these signs in someone you care about, Michael suggests it's important to talk to them openly about what you've noticed. Gently bring up your concerns and suggest that they make an appointment with their doctor to discuss these symptoms. This conversation with a medical professional will help guide both you and your loved one on the best way to move forward and get the right support. 

The Degenerative Neurological and Neuromuscular Disease journal explains that currently, there aren't any treatments that can fix the brain changes caused by Alzheimer's. But, we might be able to stop or slow down dementia in some individuals by helping them avoid common risk factors like unhealthy habits. Even without a cure, finding out early is super helpful. It gives the person and their family enough time to plan for the future and make important choices, and it also lets them get treatments that can help manage symptoms. 

<h2>Role of Healthcare and Prevention </h2>

Your regular doctor or other primary healthcare professionals play a huge part! They can help figure out who might be at risk for Alzheimer's. They can also suggest lifestyle changes when people are in their middle-age years, which can stop or slow down the disease. Plus, they are crucial for making a timely diagnosis when symptoms first appear. The best strategy is to step in early, because it helps people keep their ability to function and live independently for a longer time. 

dementia

Tell Tale Early Sign Of Dementia

Sign Of Dementia

Early Sign Of Dementia

Lesser known Symptom of Dementia

Early Diagnosis for dementia

Dementia is a general term that is used to define a multitude of cognitive degenerative illnesses like Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer's disease, etc. Alzheimer’s diseases is the most common form of dementia and while researchers have been looking for ways to treat it, there still is no way to cure it completely, the only way to treat dementia is by managing its symptoms. Lesser-known Symptom of Dementia Doctors often talk about common signs of dementia, like memory loss. But an expert says a lesser-known symptom could appear in something as simple as a birthday card, potentially being one of the first signs of Alzheimer's disease. If someone starts having trouble reading and writing, especially if they never did before, it could be an early sign of a certain condition. This idea is backed up by a 2020 study published in the Intelligent Data Analysis, which explains that some conditions affect how your brain and muscles work, leading to memory issues and confusion. Since writing involves both your brain and muscle control, it's often one of the first things to change, becoming shaky and harder to read over time. Other Subtle Signs to Watch For Besides changes in handwriting also highlight some other less obvious, but important, signs of dementia that you should keep an eye out for. These can include a loved one no longer enjoying foods they used to like or starting to shuffle their feet when they walk. You might also notice them using the wrong words when they speak, frequently being late for things, forgetting names and faces of people they know well, or even getting lost in places that are familiar to them. What to Do If You Notice Changes If you start to see any of these signs in someone you care about, Michael suggests it's important to talk to them openly about what you've noticed. Gently bring up your concerns and suggest that they make an appointment with their doctor to discuss these symptoms. This conversation with a medical professional will help guide both you and your loved one on the best way to move forward and get the right support. Why Early Diagnosis Matters The Degenerative Neurological and Neuromuscular Disease journal explains that currently, there aren't any treatments that can fix the brain changes caused by Alzheimer's. But, we might be able to stop or slow down dementia in some individuals by helping them avoid common risk factors like unhealthy habits. Even without a cure, finding out early is super helpful. It gives the person and their family enough time to plan for the future and make important choices, and it also lets them get treatments that can help manage symptoms. Role of Healthcare and Prevention Your regular doctor or other primary healthcare professionals play a huge part! They can help figure out who might be at risk for Alzheimer's. They can also suggest lifestyle changes when people are in their middle-age years, which can stop or slow down the disease. Plus, they are crucial for making a timely diagnosis when symptoms first appear. The best strategy is to step in early, because it helps people keep their ability to function and live independently for a longer time.  

the tell-tale early sign of dementia that you spot on paper

Ishita Roy

Outbreak Warning: New Viruses Found In Bats Living Near People In China

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In another news, scientists have discovered 20 new viruses from bats residing near people in China. This has been discovered in Yuan province, which has a population of around 4.2 million. The species are closely related to deadly Nipah and Hendra virus. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">Nipah Virus</span></h4>

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, which means that it is transmitted from animals to humans, and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly between people. In infected people, it causes a range of illnesses from asymptomatic infection to acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis. The virus can also cause severe disease in animals such as pigs, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers. 

Although Nipah virus has caused only a few known outbreaks in Asia, it infects a wide range of animals and causes severe disease and death in people, making it a public health concern.

<h4><span rel="noindex">Hendre Virus</span></h4>

The WHO notes that Hendra virus (HeV) infection is a rare emerging zoonosis (disease that can be transmitted to humans from animals) that causes severe and often fatal disease in both infected horses and humans. The natural host of the virus has been identified as being fruit bats of the Pteropodidae Family, Pteropus genus.

HeV was identified during the first recorded outbreak of the disease in the Brisbane suburb of Hendra, Australia, in 1994, which is where it gets its name. 

The findings were published in the journal PLOS Pathogens. Experts say that the discovery has highlighted the growing risks of new viruses which could be easily transmitted from animals to humans, especially in areas where farming, deforestation, or urbanization are happening, that is bringing people closer to the wildlife.

The study was conducted by researchers from China and the University of Sydney has uncovered a surprising number of unknown viruses in bats. Unlike most previous research, which focused on bat droppings, this study examined kidney tissues—key organs involved in virus shedding through urine, another potential transmission route.

<h4>22 Viruses Found, 20 of Them Previously Unknown</h4>

The team studied the kidneys of 142 bats over four years in China’s Yunnan province. In total, they discovered 22 viruses, including 20 previously unknown ones. The study also revealed two new types of bacteria and one unidentified parasite.

Among the viruses identified were two new henipaviruses—a group that includes deadly pathogens like Nipah and Hendra. These viruses are known to cause severe brain and respiratory infections in humans and animals, with some outbreaks having mortality rates as high as 75 percent.

<h4>A Hidden Danger in Everyday Spaces</h4>

What makes the discovery even more concerning is that the bats studied were living close to agricultural areas. Researchers caution that bat urine could contaminate fruit or surfaces that both people and livestock might come into contact with, creating potential pathways for viral transmission. The study authors emphasized the urgent need to assess these newly found viruses for their potential to cause future outbreaks.

<h4>Expert Reactions: Important But No Cause for Panic</h4>

Tim Mahony, director at the Centre for Animal Science at the University of Queensland (not part of the study), said the findings highlight how much is still unknown about the viruses in bats and the wider environment.

Linfa Wang, professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore, added: “This shows just how many different viruses exist in bats, especially henipaviruses. We need to monitor the situation closely, but there’s no need for panic right now.”

Experts broadly agree that ongoing human disruption of wildlife habitats is a major driver of spillover events. As animals are pushed out of their natural environments, the likelihood of cross-species transmission rises. This latest study acts as a reminder of the hidden viral risks in nature—and the pressing need for global vigilance, monitoring, and preparedness.

study finds bat virus in china

health and wellness

nipah virus

hendre virus

20 new bat virus in china

china virus

bat virus china

In another news, scientists have discovered 20 new viruses from bats residing near people in China. This has been discovered in Yuan province, which has a population of around 4.2 million. The species are closely related to deadly Nipah and Hendra virus. Nipah VirusAs per the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, which means that it is transmitted from animals to humans, and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly between people. In infected people, it causes a range of illnesses from asymptomatic infection to acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis. The virus can also cause severe disease in animals such as pigs, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers. Although Nipah virus has caused only a few known outbreaks in Asia, it infects a wide range of animals and causes severe disease and death in people, making it a public health concern.Hendre VirusThe WHO notes that Hendra virus (HeV) infection is a rare emerging zoonosis (disease that can be transmitted to humans from animals) that causes severe and often fatal disease in both infected horses and humans. The natural host of the virus has been identified as being fruit bats of the Pteropodidae Family, Pteropus genus.HeV was identified during the first recorded outbreak of the disease in the Brisbane suburb of Hendra, Australia, in 1994, which is where it gets its name. What Did The Scientists Find?The findings were published in the journal PLOS Pathogens. Experts say that the discovery has highlighted the growing risks of new viruses which could be easily transmitted from animals to humans, especially in areas where farming, deforestation, or urbanization are happening, that is bringing people closer to the wildlife.The study was conducted by researchers from China and the University of Sydney has uncovered a surprising number of unknown viruses in bats. Unlike most previous research, which focused on bat droppings, this study examined kidney tissues—key organs involved in virus shedding through urine, another potential transmission route.22 Viruses Found, 20 of Them Previously UnknownThe team studied the kidneys of 142 bats over four years in China’s Yunnan province. In total, they discovered 22 viruses, including 20 previously unknown ones. The study also revealed two new types of bacteria and one unidentified parasite.Among the viruses identified were two new henipaviruses—a group that includes deadly pathogens like Nipah and Hendra. These viruses are known to cause severe brain and respiratory infections in humans and animals, with some outbreaks having mortality rates as high as 75 percent.A Hidden Danger in Everyday SpacesWhat makes the discovery even more concerning is that the bats studied were living close to agricultural areas. Researchers caution that bat urine could contaminate fruit or surfaces that both people and livestock might come into contact with, creating potential pathways for viral transmission. The study authors emphasized the urgent need to assess these newly found viruses for their potential to cause future outbreaks.Expert Reactions: Important But No Cause for PanicTim Mahony, director at the Centre for Animal Science at the University of Queensland (not part of the study), said the findings highlight how much is still unknown about the viruses in bats and the wider environment.Linfa Wang, professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore, added: “This shows just how many different viruses exist in bats, especially henipaviruses. We need to monitor the situation closely, but there’s no need for panic right now.”Human Activity Driving the RiskExperts broadly agree that ongoing human disruption of wildlife habitats is a major driver of spillover events. As animals are pushed out of their natural environments, the likelihood of cross-species transmission rises. This latest study acts as a reminder of the hidden viral risks in nature—and the pressing need for global vigilance, monitoring, and preparedness.

outbreak warning: new viruses found in bats living near people in china

NHS Doctor Explains Why Viral Infections Do Not Need Such Medication

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Many people have become aware of medicines and what are certain medications used for, however this has led to some patients asking for specific medications from their doctors. They believe they understand better and often push doctors to give them what they think is right. Speaking about her experience with similar patients, Dr Mukherjee posted a video on Instagram calling out ‘pushy patients’ 

Dr. Bhasha Mukherjee, an NHS doctor, is strongly advising patients to listen to their doctors and rely on science when it comes to getting antibiotics. She wants everyone to understand that her main job is to make people better, not just to give them what they ask for, especially if it's not the right medical treatment. 

<h2>"Pushy Patients" and <span rel="noindex">Viral Infections</span> </h2>

Dr. Mukherjee has been quite vocal about patients who insist on getting antibiotics for viral infections, like the common cold or the flu. She even shared her reasons in an Instagram post called "A pushy patient asks for antibiotics for a viral infection." In it, she clearly explained why she says no to these requests. The main reason is simple: antibiotics don't work against viruses. Using them too much can actually cause serious problems, including: 

<strong><span rel="noindex">Antibiotic resistance</span>: </strong>This makes future <span>bacterial infections</span> harder to treat.

<strong>Gut issues:</strong> Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. 

More harm than good: Unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to side effects without providing any benefit.

Dr. Mukherjee's message is clear, "I'm here to heal, not to please – and that means giving you the right treatment, not the requested one. Trust science. Trust your doctor." 

<h2>When Are Antibiotics Appropriate? </h2>

The NHS confirms that antibiotics are specifically for bacterial infections. They are not effective against viruses. However, there are specific scenarios where antibiotics are necessary and beneficial 

<h4>Non-serious but persistent bacterial infections </h4>

For ongoing issues such as severe acne, where the bacterial cause won't resolve naturally, antibiotics become necessary. They effectively target and eliminate the stubborn bacteria, leading to clearer skin and preventing long-term discomfort. 

<h4>Contagious bacterial infections </h4>

Conditions like impetigo or chlamydia, which are easily transmissible to others, require antibiotics. This treatment not only heals the infected individual but also prevents the spread of the bacterial infection within the community, protecting public health. 

In specific instances, such as a kidney infection, antibiotics play a crucial role. They quickly combat the bacterial invaders, significantly reducing symptoms and accelerating the patient's recovery, often preventing more severe illness.

Anti biotics are very important for serious bacterial infections like pneumonia. These diseases can be life-threatening and using antibiotics weakens these bacteria, helping you reduce the risk of the disease escalating. 

In certain situations, antibiotics are administered as a proactive measure. This preventative approach helps to ward off potential infections before they even start, especially in vulnerable patients undergoing specific medical procedures or with weakened immune systems. 

<h4>Exceptions for Vulnerable Patients </h4>

Even though antibiotics usually aren't prescribed for viral infections, doctors might consider them for people who are more likely to get very sick from such infections. This includes people over 75, newborn babies (under 72 hours old), individuals with heart failure, those who need insulin for diabetes, and anyone with a weakened immune system. 

<h2>Why Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotic Use? </h2>

Besides not working on viruses, the NHS points out more reasons why doctors usually don't give antibiotics for viral infections. For one, they won't help you get better any more quickly. Also, taking antibiotics for small problems can make them stop working for more serious illnesses later which means the effectiveness of the medicine goes down. This is a big part of a worldwide issue called antibiotic resistance. 

viral infections

Antibiotics and Viral infections

Do Viral Infections need antibiotics

Antibiotic resistance

When do you need antibiotics

Bacterial infections

Many people have become aware of medicines and what are certain medications used for, however this has led to some patients asking for specific medications from their doctors. They believe they understand better and often push doctors to give them what they think is right. Speaking about her experience with similar patients, Dr Mukherjee posted a video on Instagram calling out ‘pushy patients’ Dr. Bhasha Mukherjee, an NHS doctor, is strongly advising patients to listen to their doctors and rely on science when it comes to getting antibiotics. She wants everyone to understand that her main job is to make people better, not just to give them what they ask for, especially if it's not the right medical treatment. "Pushy Patients" and Viral Infections Dr. Mukherjee has been quite vocal about patients who insist on getting antibiotics for viral infections, like the common cold or the flu. She even shared her reasons in an Instagram post called "A pushy patient asks for antibiotics for a viral infection." In it, she clearly explained why she says no to these requests. The main reason is simple: antibiotics don't work against viruses. Using them too much can actually cause serious problems, including: Antibiotic resistance: This makes future bacterial infections harder to treat.Gut issues: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. More harm than good: Unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to side effects without providing any benefit.Dr. Mukherjee's message is clear, "I'm here to heal, not to please – and that means giving you the right treatment, not the requested one. Trust science. Trust your doctor." When Are Antibiotics Appropriate? The NHS confirms that antibiotics are specifically for bacterial infections. They are not effective against viruses. However, there are specific scenarios where antibiotics are necessary and beneficial Non-serious but persistent bacterial infections For ongoing issues such as severe acne, where the bacterial cause won't resolve naturally, antibiotics become necessary. They effectively target and eliminate the stubborn bacteria, leading to clearer skin and preventing long-term discomfort. Contagious bacterial infections Conditions like impetigo or chlamydia, which are easily transmissible to others, require antibiotics. This treatment not only heals the infected individual but also prevents the spread of the bacterial infection within the community, protecting public health. To speed up recovery In specific instances, such as a kidney infection, antibiotics play a crucial role. They quickly combat the bacterial invaders, significantly reducing symptoms and accelerating the patient's recovery, often preventing more severe illness. Risk of serious complications Anti biotics are very important for serious bacterial infections like pneumonia. These diseases can be life-threatening and using antibiotics weakens these bacteria, helping you reduce the risk of the disease escalating. Antibiotic prophylaxis In certain situations, antibiotics are administered as a proactive measure. This preventative approach helps to ward off potential infections before they even start, especially in vulnerable patients undergoing specific medical procedures or with weakened immune systems. Exceptions for Vulnerable Patients Even though antibiotics usually aren't prescribed for viral infections, doctors might consider them for people who are more likely to get very sick from such infections. This includes people over 75, newborn babies (under 72 hours old), individuals with heart failure, those who need insulin for diabetes, and anyone with a weakened immune system. Why Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotic Use? Besides not working on viruses, the NHS points out more reasons why doctors usually don't give antibiotics for viral infections. For one, they won't help you get better any more quickly. Also, taking antibiotics for small problems can make them stop working for more serious illnesses later which means the effectiveness of the medicine goes down. This is a big part of a worldwide issue called antibiotic resistance.  

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