Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern for all infections, and respiratory infections and pneumonia are no exception. According to Dr Lancelot Pinto, consultant respirologist at PD Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, “India has the highest rate of fluoroquinolone resistance among patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and this has been attributed to its indiscriminate use for respiratory symptoms. These valuable medicines.”
Speaking further about antimicrobial resistance, Dr Nana Kunjir, consultant pulmonologist and intensivist at Sahyadri Super Specialty Hospital, Hadapsar, Pune, said, “Infections caused by resistant pathogens not only limit therapeutic options but also lead to treatment failure, resulting in prolonged illness, increased community infection, and increased health care burden.”
“Differentiating between viral and bacterial pneumonia is challenging, as the clinical presentation of both is quite similar. Viral pneumonia is mostly associated with symptoms such as rhinitis, body aches and gastrointestinal issues, and begins with bilateral lung symptoms Bacterial pneumonia is mostly acute in onset, with high temperature, unilateral lung obstruction and elevated serum procalcitonin levels. Misuse of antibiotics during treatment of pneumonia contributes to AMR, as does inappropriate prescription, dosage and The length of time that microbial resistance occurs. Appropriate antibiotic selection, taking into account patient history, prevalent pathogens, and susceptibility reports, is important. National guidelines and hospital protocols should guide antibiotic use, with customization based on the local antibioticogram. Emphasis must be placed,” he said.
Finally, Dr Anirban Sarkar, a consultant pulmonologist at ILS Hospital, Dumdum, concluded, “In our country, indiscriminate use of antibiotics has increased, including cases of overuse or inadequate dose and duration. The practices may provide temporary relief but are harmful because they fail to completely eliminate germs. Instead, bacteria can develop resistance, rendering antibiotics ineffective. This resistance is a significant concern. In view of this pneumonia May result from viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, any medical problems related to these agents pneumoniaIn severe cases, life support such as ventilation is also required. Additionally, it is important to manage underlying health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and monitor oxygen levels in the blood. It is also important to promptly identify and address antimicrobial resistance in the patient’s body.”
(Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified person regarding any medical condition. healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding.)
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