Infections treatment: what to try first and when to get help

Not every infection needs an antibiotic. Viral colds, many sore throats, and most simple bronchitis get better on their own. Using antibiotics when you don't need them causes side effects and helps resistant bacteria spread. This page pulls together clear, practical tips so you can make safer choices and act fast when treatment is needed.

When to see a doctor now

If you have a high fever that won’t come down, trouble breathing, severe pain, confusion, or symptoms that suddenly get worse after a short improvement, get medical help right away. For urinary symptoms that include blood, severe pain, or fever, see a provider — you might need tests or a cystoscopy for recurring cystitis. Chest congestion with shortness of breath, chest pain, or a blue tint around lips or nails also needs urgent attention.

Common treatments and safety tips

Antibiotics like ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and erythromycin treat specific bacterial infections, but they work differently and have different risks. Cipro is a fluoroquinolone often used for certain urinary or GI infections. It can increase tendon injury risk, especially in older adults or people on steroids, and may cause dizziness — avoid heavy exercise while taking it.

Erythromycin is a macrolide used for respiratory and some skin infections. It commonly causes stomach upset and can interact with other drugs (statins, some blood thinners). Always tell your prescriber about all medicines you take — this cuts down on dangerous interactions.

Parasitic infections need different drugs. For intestinal worms, mebendazole is common; for schistosomiasis (bilharzia), praziquantel is used. Mass-treatment programs in some countries treat children at scale — if you travel or live in areas with these risks, ask your local health service about prevention and screening.

Finish the full course of any prescribed antibiotic, even if you feel better. Stopping early can let bacteria survive and become resistant. If side effects are severe (allergic reaction, trouble breathing, severe rash), stop the drug and seek emergency care.

Buying meds online? Use only licensed pharmacies, require a valid prescription, check contact info and return policies, and avoid sites that offer controlled drugs without a prescription. Look for secure checkout (https), verified reviews, and a physical address. If a price looks unrealistically low, trust your instincts — it may be counterfeit or unsafe.

Want practical guides? Read our articles on Cipro use and safety, erythromycin basics, preparing for cystoscopy when diagnosing cystitis, and how public health campaigns treat parasitic outbreaks. The goal is simple: get the right treatment at the right time, safely.

If you're unsure whether an infection needs antibiotics, call your clinic or a pharmacist and describe your symptoms — a short call can save you a lot of trouble.