Have a Cold? Hold Off on Antibiotics

A-a-a-CHOO—On average, adults get two to four colds a year and children six to 10. You’ll usually recover in a week or so.

You’ve got a scratchy throat, stuffy nose and a mild fever. Don’t demand antibiotics. “We face a serious public health crisis due to medical and agricultural overuse of antibiotics,” says family nurse practitioner Beth Hyde. Your doctor only will prescribe antibiotics if they are necessary. In most cases your body can conquer a cold naturally with a little help from over-the-counter medications, time and TLC. Need a doctor? Call 610-402-CARE.

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