Dr. Lakshmi Priya
Microbiology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
From time to time, I get weeping and crusting bacterial wound infections all over the body. I have had this issue for a long time. It is chronic, and watery discharge is a common feature. My doctor used to give Augmentin for this because Penicillin was not helping, so a combination was required. But now Augmentin is not helping either. I would like you to suggest some antibiotics for this. I need a broad-spectrum antibacterial drug that is effective against (gram-positive or negative) bacterial skin infections. Kindly suggest tablets, or capsules, with minimum side effects. Kindly refrain from prescribing non-penicillin based medicines. Or maybe a combination of drugs can work. I read about the effectiveness of Tetracycline and Ofloxacin on the internet. Do you think these medications could be helpful in my case? If yes, please mention the dosage and duration commonly taken for skin infections.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I went through your query and understood your concern.
Regarding your complaint, I would initially suggest you do a wound culture and sensitivity test for bacterial and fungal infections. Since your complaints seem to be chronic and due to the long-term use of antibiotics, you may have a multi-bacterial infection which is also superseded by a fungal infection. So it is advisable to do the culture, and with the sensitivity report, we can choose the antibiotics which will work best for you. And, since you have been using antibiotics for a longer time, you may have also become resistant to the antibiotics. First, however, I suggest you to maintain personal hygiene and wash your hands regularly.
I hope this has helped you.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you for your reply.
I see a microbiologist every few months, and I will mention conducting a sensitivity test with him. I am sure that certain bacteria in my body have become antibiotic-resistant because the antibiotic pills that I used to take are no longer working. The GPs and dentists I visited have prescribed me different types of antibiotics over the years. I will tell the experts about the tests, but in the meantime, I always have a fear I might pass this infection to other family members. So my question is, if one person is resistant to biofilm-related skin infections, and another person with an excellent, competent immune system catches this from him, will the infection not manage to establish itself in the healthy individual?
Please share your opinion.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
So my answer to your query is that as long as the immune system is intact, it may fight back against the infection even if they acquire it. But if the bacteria is a severe form of infection, then it may attack the immune system. You and your family members may prevent this by frequent hand washing.
I hope this has helped you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Microbiology
Related Questions
Importance of Titanium Implant’s Surface Modification
Sepsis
I have a decayed tooth and swollen cheek. How to manage?
Ayurvedic medication for multidrug/antibiotic resistant bacterial infections.
Dry Socket - A Post-Extraction Complication
What can I take for bacterial infection in my gums?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
