Antibiotics overuse can lead to serious health risks, top doctor suggests how to replace them

Overuse of antibiotics can cause overall drug resistance, suppressed immunity and long-term side effects (Image: Pexels)

• Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not viral illnesses like colds or flu.
• Overuse of antibiotics can cause drug resistance and weaken immunity
• Natural remedies and healthy habits can help prevent winter infections

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Coughs, colds, sore throats, flu and respiratory infection cases rise during winter months. As the temperature plummets, pharmacies typically experience a flood of patients searching for quick relief — and an uptick in antibiotic use is not uncommon. Experts say that this increase in taking antibiotics is not just because of infection but also because of a lack of awareness about how antibiotics work.

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, not viral illnesses like common cold and flu that dominate in winter. But, because so many of the symptoms overlap — fever and fatigue, stuffy noses and body aches — most people seem to assume antibiotics are needed for quick recovery. In certain cases, particularly for elderly patients or those with weakened immunity, doctors prescribe an antibiotic only as a precaution

The misuse and overuse of antibiotics have become a slowly growing concern on a worldwide scale, because it leads to overall drug resistance, suppressed immunity and long-term side effects. Dr Neha Kumar, Senior Consultant Physician at Vinayak Global, Noida, says that taking antibiotics should be avoided as far as possible.

Also read | Expert explains why common infections take longer to cure, blames it on antibiotic misuse

Why we take more antibiotics in winter

Cold weather confines people indoors, which worsens close contact and the spread of infections. “Decreased sunlight means lower vitamin D levels, which weakens your immune system,” Dr Kumar tells Moneycontrol. Dry air can irritate the respiratory passages, which then makes the body more susceptible to infections. Together, they contribute to more doctor visits — and frequently greater antibiotic prescribing.

Risks of overusing antibiotics

Overuse of antibiotics can disrupt the gut, weaken natural immunity and lead to development of antibiotic resistance. This makes subsequent infections harder to treat and raises the likelihood of permanent health problems. Experts caution that antibiotics should never be the first line of defense for common viral illnesses.

How to avoid the need for antibiotics

There are natural remedies for most winter maladies. Add natural anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting ingredients like ginger, turmeric, honey and garlic in your daily diet. The body heals on its own with steam inhalation, rest and good nutrition.

Also read | 5 reasons to choose bactitophages over antibiotics

Why prevention is better than cure

Good hygiene, physical activity, stress management and eating a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables can greatly reduce winter infections. Dr Kumar emphasises that preventive and natural care can in many cases remove the necessity for antibiotics completely.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.