Although targeted antibiotics are a vital part of the treatment of both MRSA, C.difficile and many other bacterial infections, it is known that exposure to antibiotic treatment in the preceding 3 / 4 months increases your risk of becoming infected.
Broad spectrum antibiotics kill off many of the “good” bacteria in your gut which would normally protect you, allowing the “bad” bacteria to multiply and produce the toxins which cause your symptoms.
Overuse of antibiotics plays it’s part in creating resistant strains of infections.
Probiotics – replenishing the “good” bacteria
Probiotics are an important element in your fight against infection.
A depleted immune system and/or use of antibiotics can kill off the “good” bacteria in your gut, which would normally protect you from overgrowth of any “bad” bacteria.
Replenishing these “good” bacteria with the use of probiotics gives you a better chance of fighting off infection. Start taking a daily dose before you go into hospital and continue whilst you are an inpatient. This is also good advice for those dealing with infection at home.
Caution: Taking probiotics can cause adverse reactions and be harmful in certain medical condition (e.g. pancreatitis). Please discuss this with your doctor before beginning a course.
Normal stomach acid can help to kill off dangerous bacteria.
PPIs reduce this acid, have an effect on the lining of the gut and can leave you more vulnerable to infection. Therefore it is advisable if you are taking PPIs for heartburn, indigestion or stomach ulcers to discuss this with your doctor. He may suggest an alternative medication whilst you are on an antibiotic regime or in hospital.
Caution: Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor as to do so could cause ulceration.
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