Antibiotics are used to treat atypical respiratory pathogens, which are bacteria, viruses, and fungi that cause infections in the lungs, airways, and other parts of the respiratory tract. Antibiotics are used when the infection is caused by bacteria, as they can kill the bacteria and reduce the symptoms of the infection.
Infections caused by viruses, such as the common cold or influenza, are generally not treated with antibiotics as they are viral infections and antibiotics cannot kill viruses. However, if the virus is complicated by a bacterial infection, then antibiotics may be prescribed.
Fungal infections are also treated with antibiotics, however, they are usually antifungal medications rather than antibiotics. These medications help to inhibit the growth of the fungus and reduce the symptoms of the infection.
When selecting an antibiotic to treat atypical respiratory pathogens, the doctor will take into account the severity of the infection, the patient’s medical history, and any other medications the patient is taking. The doctor will then prescribe an antibiotic that is most likely to be effective against the particular bacteria or fungus causing the infection.
In summary, antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, and antifungal medications are used to treat fungal infections. The doctor will select the most appropriate antibiotic or antifungal medication based on the severity of the infection and the patient’s medical history.