Our intuitions about health often clash with scientific evidence, leading us to make decisions that might not be best for us. Overusing antibiotics for common ailments is a prime example.
Fortunately, doctors can bridge the gap between our gut feelings and sound medical advice. This week’s Doctor’s Q&A highlights the importance of relying on expert opinion.
Renowned physician Dr. Renée Hoenderkamp sheds light on hidden risks associated with antibiotics, shares strategies for faster recovery from stomach bugs, and provides guidance on regaining fitness after hip replacement surgery.
Last week, Dr. Hoenderkamp addressed viewer concerns about eye health, heartburn remedies, and the root causes of poor gut health. Remember, the advice below is general and shouldn’t replace personalized care from your doctor.
Now, let’s delve into Dr. Hoenderkamp’s insightful answers to pressing health questions from GB News members:
Can you explain your hesitancy towards antibiotics? My GP seems to prescribe them frequently, but I’ve heard you advocate for avoiding them whenever possible.
It’s not that I dislike antibiotics, but rather that I’m cautious about their side effects and prefer to avoid them unless absolutely necessary. Antibiotics often have downsides without offering any benefits for viral infections, which are commonly treated unnecessarily with these medications.
Here’s a deeper look at the potential drawbacks:
Gut Microbiome Disruption:
Our gut houses a vast ecosystem of beneficial bacteria essential for a strong immune system. Antibiotics can wipe out these good bacteria for up to two years, weakening our defenses against future infections.
Unpleasant Side Effects:
One in five individuals experience side effects like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or rashes.
Antibiotic Resistance:
Every antibiotic use increases the risk of promoting resistant bacteria. This "superbug" phenomenon poses a serious threat to global health, as highlighted by the alarming number of deaths attributed to antibiotic-resistant infections.
Frequent and unnecessary antibiotic use accelerates this crisis, potentially leading to a future where minor injuries become life-threatening.
When patients request antibiotics for lingering coughs, colds, or chest infections, I often suggest a chest X-ray. True lower respiratory infections requiring antibiotics are relatively rare in these cases, as most coughs and colds are caused by viruses, which antibiotics cannot effectively treat.
I trust this clarifies my stance and assure you that I practice what I preach.
I’m battling a stomach bug that’s going around. Any tips for a faster recovery?
Stomach bugs are rampant right now, manifesting in symptoms ranging from nausea and loss of appetite to vomiting and diarrhea. While severe pain with a fever and vomiting warrants a doctor’s visit to rule out appendicitis, most cases can be managed at home.
If you’re sure it’s a contagious bug (like if others around you are sick), consider these strategies to aid recovery:
Eliminate Dairy:
Temporarily ditch dairy products, as they can prolong symptoms due to potential lactose intolerance triggered by the gut bug. Gradually reintroduce dairy after a couple of weeks, monitoring for a flare-up.
Soothing Ginger Remedy:
Simmer ginger slices in water, strain, and add lemon juice and sea salt. This refreshing drink helps soothe the gut lining and replenish electrolytes.
Probiotics:
Support your gut’s good bacteria with a quality probiotic supplement.
Gradual Food Reintroduction:
Eat small, frequent meals of easily digestible, fresh, home-cooked foods.
Recovery from Hip Replacement:
Three months post hip replacement, you should experience reduced pain and swelling, along with improved mobility. Focus on walking, swimming, and low-impact exercises.
Continue working with your physical therapist for personalized strengthening and stability routines. It’s crucial to progress gradually and listen to your body.
If you haven’t seen improvement at this stage or are unsure about appropriate exercises, reach out to your surgical team for guidance. A [ link to a pre and post-operative exercise video] can offer helpful suggestions. Remember, recovery timelines vary, so be patient with yourself.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Renée Hoenderkamp
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Hoenderkamp! Thank you for joining us today. It’s a pleasure to have you here to discuss important health topics that affect many of us. Let’s dive right in. Your recent insights highlighted a significant issue: our intuitions about health often clash with scientific evidence. Can you elaborate on this?
Dr. Hoenderkamp: Thank you for having me! It’s true—our intuitions can sometimes lead us astray, especially when it comes to common treatments like antibiotics. Many people instinctively turn to antibiotics for ailments like coughs or colds, but these infections are often viral, and antibiotics simply don’t work against them.
Editor: That’s a common misconception. You mentioned in your recent Q&A that frequent antibiotic use has hidden risks. What are some of these risks?
Dr. Hoenderkamp: One major risk is the disruption of the gut microbiome. Antibiotics kill not just the harmful bacteria but also the beneficial ones that are crucial for our immune system. This disruption can last up to two years, leaving our bodies more vulnerable to infections. Additionally, a significant portion of people—around 20%—experience unpleasant side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, or rashes.
Editor: And on top of that, there’s the issue of antibiotic resistance, right?
Dr. Hoenderkamp: Precisely. Every time antibiotics are used, there’s a chance of promoting antibiotic-resistant bacteria, often referred to as “superbugs.” This is becoming a pressing global health crisis, as it can turn minor injuries into life-threatening situations.
Editor: That’s concerning. So, if someone comes to you with a lingering cough or a cold, what’s your approach?
Dr. Hoenderkamp: I often recommend further evaluation, such as a chest X-ray, because true lower respiratory infections that need antibiotics are quite rare. Most cases are viral, and in those situations, we really need to focus on supportive care rather than leaning on antibiotics.
Editor: Speaking of supportive care, what advice can you give for people dealing with stomach bugs?
Dr. Hoenderkamp: Stomach bugs can be really tough! I typically advise rest, staying hydrated, and a bland diet to help ease symptoms. Most stomach bugs resolve on their own, but it’s vital to seek medical attention if severe pain or high fever accompanies the symptoms, as that could indicate a more serious condition.
Editor: Great advice! Now, let’s shift gears a bit. Could you share your thoughts on regaining fitness post-hip replacement surgery?
Dr. Hoenderkamp: Absolutely. Recovery is a gradual process. It’s essential to follow a structured rehabilitation program that your doctors will prescribe, which includes physical therapy. Gentle movements and gradually increasing activity levels are key to regaining strength and mobility. Listening to the body and not rushing the recovery is essential.
Editor: That makes a lot of sense. Before we wrap up, I’d like to touch upon the importance of personalized care. You mentioned that the advice you give is general and shouldn’t replace consultations with personal doctors. Why is this distinction so important?
Dr. Hoenderkamp: Every individual is unique, and health conditions can manifest in numerous ways. What works for one person might not work for another. Personalized care ensures that patients receive tailored advice and treatment that considers their specific medical history, lifestyle, and individual needs.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hoenderkamp, for your valuable insights today. It’s crucial for our audience to understand the importance of expert medical advice and the risks of self-diagnosing or overusing treatments like antibiotics.
Dr. Hoenderkamp: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing these crucial topics, and I hope our conversation helps people make informed choices about their health!
Editor: Absolutely! We look forward to having you back to discuss more health topics in the future.