Finding the underlying cause

Now we know when to use delayed prescribing and de-escalation, we need to look at times where antibiotics may not be needed at all. Dr Tim Nuttall discusses the role that dysbiosis of the microbiome can play in recurrent infections. He also talks about the importance of finding and treating the underlying cause.

Most infections actually involve a dysbiosis of the microbiome. Rather than relying on repeated courses of antimicrobials to manage this, we should be looking at what the underlying reason for the dysbiosis of the microbiome is, and what is driving the infection. This way, we can avoid repetitive antimicrobial use.

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It is important to manage the underlying causes of recurrent infections, to maintain a healthy microbiome. We need to think about why the infection is there and not just react to its presentation.

How do you, in your practice, approach investigating and managing recurrent infections to avoid repeated use of antibiotics? Please discuss in the comments section.