Effect of antibiotics on intestines Image Credit source: Getty Images
Antibiotics play an important role in the treatment of many infections caused by bacteria. These medicines are considered quite effective when used properly as per doctor’s advice. However, many times people use antibiotics unnecessarily or repeatedly. Excessive use of these medicines can affect the health of other parts of the body, especially the intestines. Millions of good and bad bacteria are present in the intestines, which help in many important functions of digestion and health. Excessive use of antibiotics can affect the intestines.
intestines Health is considered to be related not only to digestion but also to many other processes of the body. Gut microbiome i.e. the balance of microorganisms present in the intestines helps in the normal functioning of the body. When this balance is affected, some problems related to digestion may arise. Although antibiotics are necessary to treat infections, they should always be used as per the doctor’s advice. In such a situation, it is important to know how these medicines can affect the intestines and what things should be kept in mind while using them.
How can overuse of antibiotics affect the intestines?
Information available from CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) According to, the job of antibiotics is to destroy the bacteria causing infection. However, in many cases these medicines can also affect some beneficial bacteria present in the intestines. This can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, which is called intestinal dysbiosis.
When the balance of good and bad bacteria in the intestines is affected, the digestive process can be affected. This is why it is advisable to use antibiotics only when needed and as per the doctor’s advice. Its effect may vary from person to person. Therefore, one should avoid taking antibiotics repeatedly or for a long time without doctor’s advice.
What signs can be seen when the balance of intestinal bacteria is disturbed?
When the balance of intestinal bacteria is affected, some people may experience problems like flatulence, gas formation, diarrhea, constipation or stomach discomfort. Apart from this, in some cases, change in appetite or other digestive problems may also be felt.
However, it is not necessary that these symptoms are only due to bacterial imbalance. If such problems persist for a long time or occur repeatedly, then a doctor should be consulted and checked.
What things should be kept in mind while using antibiotics?
Always take antibiotics as per doctor’s advice and complete the entire course of medicine. Do not stop the medicine in between on your own.
Apart from this, take a balanced diet, drink enough water and take care of digestive health. If any unusual symptoms appear while taking the medicine, contact your doctor immediately. Using antibiotics correctly is considered essential for health.
