Bacterial infection treatment: what works and when

Antibiotics save lives, but using them the wrong way makes them stop working. If you think you have a bacterial infection, the key is knowing when antibiotics help and when they don't. This guide gives clear, practical steps so you can make safer choices.

When antibiotics are needed

Not every sore throat, cough, or runny nose needs antibiotics. Viruses cause most colds and flu, and antibiotics do nothing against viruses. Think antibiotics if you have symptoms that point to bacteria: high fever with yellow or green mucus for a few days, a painful swollen area on the skin that’s red and warm, sudden painful urination, or a very sore throat with white patches and fever (possible strep throat).

If symptoms are mild, rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers often work. If symptoms are getting worse after a few days or you have risk factors (diabetes, a weak immune system, recent surgery), see a clinician. They might order a swab or urine test to confirm bacteria before prescribing antibiotics.

Common antibiotics and practical tips

Doctors pick antibiotics based on the likely bacteria and local resistance patterns. Common options include amoxicillin for ear infections and strep throat, cephalexin for many skin infections, doxycycline for some respiratory or tick-borne infections, and ciprofloxacin or nitrofurantoin for certain urinary tract infections. Never self-prescribe based on someone else’s pills.

Follow these simple rules: take the exact dose and duration your clinician prescribes; finish the full course unless told otherwise; keep an eye on side effects like diarrhea, rash, or severe stomach pain; and call your doctor if you’re allergic (hives, swelling, trouble breathing).

Antibiotic resistance is real. Skipping doses, saving leftovers, or asking for antibiotics for viral illnesses helps resistant bacteria spread. If your doctor says antibiotics aren’t needed, ask what will help instead and when to come back if things worsen.

Topical antibiotics can work for minor skin cuts, but deep or spreading infections need oral therapy. For some conditions, a culture helps pick the best drug — for example, urine cultures for UTIs or wound cultures for severe skin infections.

Prevention matters: wash hands often, keep wounds clean, stay up to date on vaccines like pneumococcal and pertussis shots, and practice safe food handling. These steps reduce the chance you’ll need antibiotics in the first place.

If you’re unsure, telehealth can be a fast way to get advice, but serious symptoms (high fever, shortness of breath, confusion, severe pain) need urgent in-person care. Use antibiotics wisely — they work best when used the right way.