What are the common side effects of antibiotics?

Common side effects of antibiotics include nausea, diarrhoea, skin rash, and yeast infections.

Antibiotics are powerful medicines used to treat certain illnesses caused by bacteria. However, they can also cause several side effects. One of the most common side effects is nausea, which can sometimes be accompanied by vomiting. This is because antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut, leading to discomfort.

Another common side effect is diarrhoea. This happens because antibiotics can kill off the 'good' bacteria in your gut, which helps to digest food. This can lead to an imbalance, causing diarrhoea. In some cases, this can also lead to a more serious condition called Clostridium difficile infection, which causes severe diarrhoea and can be life-threatening.

Skin rash is another side effect that some people may experience when taking antibiotics. This can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it may be a sign of an allergic reaction to the medication. If you develop a rash while taking antibiotics, it's important to contact your doctor immediately.

Lastly, antibiotics can also cause yeast infections. This is because they can kill off the 'good' bacteria that keep yeast levels in check, leading to an overgrowth. This can cause symptoms such as itching, burning, and discharge in women, and a rash in men.

It's important to remember that not everyone will experience these side effects, and in many cases, they are mild and go away on their own once you stop taking the medication. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, it's important to seek medical attention.