Bacteria: What You Need to Know

Bacteria are tiny organisms that live everywhere: on your skin, in your gut, and in soil. Most are harmless or helpful, but some cause infections that need care. This page helps you spot common bacterial problems, understand tests and treatments, and take simple steps to prevent illness.

Common bacterial infections include strep throat, urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacterial pneumonia, skin infections like cellulitis, and food poisoning from Salmonella or E. coli. Symptoms vary by site but often include fever, pain, swelling, redness, unusual discharge, or sudden digestive issues. If symptoms start fast or get worse, don’t ignore them.

How doctors find bacteria

Two main tools are used: samples and imaging. For many infections a swab, urine sample, blood test, or stool sample is taken and sent for culture or rapid testing. Cultures grow the bacteria so labs can identify the exact type and test which antibiotics will work. Imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound helps for deeper infections like pneumonia or abscesses. Get tested when a provider asks — it guides better treatment.

Treating bacterial infections

Antibiotics are the main treatment. Different antibiotics work on different bacteria, so matching the drug to the bug matters. Finish the full course even if you feel better, because stopping early can let bacteria survive and become resistant. Side effects happen — stomach upset, yeast infections, or allergies — so tell your provider if something feels wrong. For some mild infections, rest, fluids, and over-the-counter options are enough while your immune system clears the bug.

Antibiotic resistance is real and growing. Bacteria that survive incomplete or unnecessary antibiotic use can become harder to kill. Never pressure a clinician for antibiotics if tests don’t show bacterial infection. Hand hygiene, vaccines, and targeted antibiotic use help slow resistance.

Wash hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after bathroom use. Cook food to safe temperatures and refrigerate leftovers quickly. Stay up to date on vaccines like pneumococcal and meningococcal where recommended. For skin wounds, clean and cover them until healed. In healthcare settings, follow staff instructions about devices or wound care.

If you have high fever, severe pain, signs of spreading infection (red streaks, swelling), blood in urine or stool, breathing trouble, or confusion, seek care fast. For recurring UTIs, frequent sore throats, or persistent skin issues, ask for testing and follow-up.

Keep a list of current meds and allergies. Ask if culture results are pending before starting antibiotics. Use antibiotics exactly as prescribed and never share them. Ask your provider about symptom targets: when to expect improvement and when to return.

If you're caring for someone sick, keep them hydrated, separate towels, clean surfaces with household disinfectant, and wash bedding on hot. Call a pharmacist for minor questions but see a clinician for fever over 38.5°C, worsening cough, or spreading wounds right away.

Stay practical: most bacterial infections are treatable when diagnosed early and managed correctly. Small prevention steps cut risk a lot.