Question

3. How might long-term antibiotic use affect the overall function of the gastrointestinal tract? What might be the consequences for nutritional status and health? or 7.

Answer 1

Antibiotics are generally prescribed for killing the microorganism or bacteria. They are always prescribed in certain courses and it is a must to complete the full course.Long term use of antibiotics can generally affect the gastrointestinal system.They react with the acidic nature of the stomach and initially cause nausea and vomiting. They can irritate the intestinal lining and cause erosion leading to ulceration. The ulceration can lead to abdominal pain and discomfort further leading to fullness or bloating sensation. This overtime will lead to loss of appetite and diarrhoea which can cause nutritional deficiency and affecting the overall health of an individual.