Being sick is no fun at all, and can cause significant inconveniences for people who work, go to school, or have other serious obligations.
So sometimes when we’re sick, we’re tempted to take something “safe” to get rid of the flu.
But this common medication causes arthritis and other complications, and should therefore be avoided.
In a new study from Rutgers University, scientists uncovered an alarming link between taking antibiotics and a drastic increase in risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
Diseases on the list of inflammation processes for arthritis occur when the body’s immune system attacks itself. For Rheumatoid arthritis, for example, the body’s immune cells see the joint tissue as an invader and set about to destroy it.
Another process of the body’s immune response is to target and eliminate viruses and bacteria.
What else helps to eliminate bacteria? A group of drugs called antibiotics.
For years scientists have been uncovering evidence of the dangers related to the overuse of antibiotic medicines. From developing super-bugs to inducing allergic reactions, over-using antibiotics has created several problems worldwide.
A new development recently uncovered in the Rutgers University study shows a compelling link between use of antibiotics and the rate of development of rheumatoid arthritis.
The exact mechanism is still not fully understood, but scientists hypothesize that some process gets triggered with the effects of the antibiotic that confuses the body’s immunity. Instead of handling the original illness on its own, it starts attacking the very body it is supposed to protect.
Considering that most people’s first experiences with antibiotics happen when they are still young children- infants in many cases- the exposure to the risk is a lifelong endeavor.
Avoiding the risk then becomes more important, especially if you are already at risk of developing arthritis. Let your body fight off invaders on its own, especially if your health care provider has indicated the sickness may be a virus. Antibiotics won’t help you there, anyway. If you absolutely must take antibiotics, make sure you also take probiotics.
more from you on this topic