As summer approaches, many of you might be suffering from symptoms like runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing due to allergic rhinitis. These symptoms are caused by allergic reactions, triggered by various allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. In such situations, many people tend to reach for allergy rhinitis medications they have at home. However, using medication arbitrarily like this can be extremely dangerous.

The Dangers of Medication Misuse

Many households store leftover medications. This can include cold medicines, fever reducers, antibiotics, and more. While initially taken after consulting a doctor or pharmacist, leftover medications at home are often taken arbitrarily based on personal experience. However, using medications incorrectly in this manner can cause significant harm to your health.

Allergic Rhinitis Medications Require Careful Use

Among the medications used to treat allergic rhinitis are nasal sprays containing steroids or antihistamines. Prolonged use of these medications can lead to capillary dilation, and long-term oral intake of systemic steroids can negatively impact growth. Therefore, it is crucial to get a doctor's prescription to accurately identify the cause of allergic rhinitis and use medications cautiously.

Antibiotic Misuse Leads to Resistance Issues

Furthermore, the misuse of antibiotics is a major problem. In the past, antibiotics like 'mycin' were indiscriminately used even for the common cold, which can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance. Once resistance develops, bacteria can survive without being affected by antibiotics, making treatment difficult. The WHO has designated antibiotic resistance as one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity, highlighting its severity.

A Cautious Approach Needed from Both Doctors and Patients

Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like the common cold and should absolutely not be used. Statistics show that approximately 30% of antibiotics prescribed in Korean hospitals are inappropriate. This is attributed to factors such as excessive prescription by doctors and arbitrary discontinuation by patients. Therefore, both doctors and patients must use antibiotics with caution. Otherwise, antibiotics may not be effective when they are truly needed.

As you can see, medication misuse can have serious consequences for our health. Only use medications at home when absolutely necessary, and consulting with a doctor before taking them is the safest approach. Because your health is precious!