New case of antibiotic resistance highlights need for alternative treatments
Monday, February 6, 2017
In January, the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention released details regarding
a
70-year-old Nevada woman who died after contracting a strain of
bacteria, or superbug, that resisted all known antibiotics.
Concern over these kinds
of cases is not new. The health care community has recognized for
some time that the widespread use of antibiotics can lead to
resistant bacteria. Like all organisms, bacteria evolve to adapt to
its environment. In an environment that includes the frequent use
of antibiotics, resistant bacteria could become more common.
Historically, antibiotics have been used rather
indiscriminately. Because viral infections can have similar
symptoms to bacterial infections, it was not uncommon for patients
to be prescribed antibiotics even though they have no effect on
viruses. Antibiotics are even used on some of the animals we
eat.
National University's Assistant Dean for Acupunture and Oriental
Medicine programs Zhanxiang Wang, MD (China), PhD, LAc, teaches his
students about cases in which antibiotics failed to help stop an
infection. In one case, a dentist faced amputation when antibiotics
had no effect on a cut on his finger. However, when prescribed an
oral 10 herb formula by an oriental medicine physician, the dentist
healed completely.
"A lot of research shows herbal treatment can help overcome this
resistance," Dr. Wang said.
Herbs for some injuries can work on multiple levels by killing
the bacteria, healing the wound and relieving pain. Acupuncture can
also help improve the body's immune system, relieve stress and
better other functions.
Dr. Wang advises using antibiotics properly. In addition to
killing the bad bacteria, antibiotics can kill healthy bacteria
that help with digestion and the immune system. As a result, more
infections could develop requiring the use of even more
medications.
Like oriental medicine doctors, naturopathic doctors also
approach infections differently.
Louise Edwards, ND, LAc, a lecturer at NUHS explains,
"Naturopathic doctors recognize the self healing ability of the
body. We treat diseases and infections according to the laws of
nature and with natural means. We know that when we create the
conditions for health, we can bank on a return to health."
Naturopathic doctors try to uncover the underlying causes of the
infection by treating the individual and not just the disease or
symptoms. There could be several factors including diet, mental
state, environment and other habits that could make a person more
vulnerable to infection. NDs also try to prevent new infections by
making sure the immune system is working correctly. This could mean
giving the patient herbs and other nutrients, as well.
Antibiotics are useful at appropriate times, however for many
bacterial infections there are alternative treatments. Dr. Edwards
said she would start with the fundamentals such as hydration, rest
and avoiding sugar that can feed the bacteria. In addition
she might recommend herbal and nutritional therapies to support the
engaged organs, such as the lungs, and the immune system. There are
even some herbs that will kill certain kinds of bacteria.
While the need for antibiotics is still necessary today,
alternative medicine treatments can help make its use less
widespread and also prevent antibiotic resistant bacteria.
"The way we treat patients can have lasting effects, not only
for the patients but for society at large," Dr. Edwards said. "At
NUHS, our students learn the importance of treating the individual
and giving them the most appropriate and effective care
possible."