i just switched doctors but im not sure what to think. my three month old is conjested and has a bad cough. when i took him in i told her his symptoms and that he sounded really conjested in his chest. she listen to his lungs and said it was just nasal conjestion. (he does not have a runny nose nor is it stuffy) she prescribed him to an antibotic. i did a little research and found out that antibiotics are only for bacterial infections not viral infections and are over prescribed. how does she know just by looking at him whether it was baterial or viral? also he has been on the antibotics for a week now and no improvment. i think that maybe she was wrong and he is conjested in his chest because when you hold him you can actually feel the "gung" in his chest when he breathes. how can i tell the difference btwn chest and nasal congestion? should i be worried, or trust the doctor? i know they know more than me but im just scared she could be wrong.
2006-12-20 13:31:29 · 7 answers · asked by ? 2 in Health ➔ Other - Health
Doctors are human overworked and undertrained. If you think your doctor is wrong see another one. Antibiotics when given inappropriately only kill off the good bacteria our bodies need and decrease the bodys ability to fight infection.
2006-12-20 13:39:19 · answer #1 · answered by minimouse68 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If there has been no improvement in a week, you should really go back and see the Dr. again. Some bacteria are immune to the prescribed antibiotic. You have certainly given it enough time to work. Is there another Dr. in the practice that you could see this time? Maybe see her partner ? Be sure to ask plenty of questions, maybe write them down ahead of time.
If the Dr. is not comfortable answering your questions or seems resentful of you asking questions, then you need to switch doctors. Communication is the key to getting the proper therapy for your baby's illness.
If she is a solo practioner, and you are uncomfortable with or have questions about treatment, it is certainly fair to get a second opinion. - dd
2006-12-20 22:27:00 · answer #2 · answered by dedum 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
for your first question if the doctor can determine if its viral or bacterial well yes the physical exam. and the history of the patient can give the doctor an idea if the problem is bacterial or viral.
after your antibiotic and the patient is not responding but not deteriorating no need to panic for probably its allergic by nature. but if your infant is deteriorating and other signs comes up like fever. then be apprtehnsive and reconsult your doctor or better yrt have a second opinon from another doctor. possibly a pulmonologist
2006-12-20 21:53:25 · answer #3 · answered by Light bearer 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, the doctor is wrong. Many doctors prescribe antibiotics when they shouldn't. I have had it happen to me with my doctor many times.
I would stop giving your son the antibiotic. Find another pediatrician. Never stay with a doctor you're not comfortable with.
2006-12-20 21:38:59 · answer #4 · answered by Nancy 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Of course I don't know what is really wrong with your kiddo.. BUT... I can tell you that if you are unsure and doubting your pediatrician then get another opinion.
You are your Son's mother and you know best.
Good Luck!
2006-12-20 21:46:43 · answer #5 · answered by Heather 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
trust your gut instincts. If you think it is not right, investigate. it couldn't hurt to be persistant. go back to the dr & voice your concerns about your baby not getting better. Little ones can get sick so fast & their little bodies are still growing & developing. Trust yourself. Good luck
2006-12-20 21:39:35 · answer #6 · answered by twogris 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
if you are not comfortable with the doctor you could get a new doctor.
2006-12-20 21:42:26 · answer #7 · answered by Wicked 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋