Bacterial infections: how to spot them, treat them, and avoid trouble

Bacterial infections happen when harmful bacteria multiply in the body. They can show up as a sore throat with white patches, a painful red wound, a urinary tract infection with burning and urgency, or a productive cough with fever. Not every fever or cough is bacterial — viral infections are common — so look for localized signs like pus, worsening pain, or symptoms that get steadily worse after a few days.

Quick, practical signs a problem may be bacterial: persistent high fever, a wound that’s red, hot, and draining pus, stiff neck, severe belly pain, or urine that’s cloudy with a strong smell. If you see these, contact a healthcare provider fast.

Diagnosis and common tests

Doctors use simple tests to tell if bacteria are the cause. A throat swab or rapid strep test, urine dip or culture, wound swab, or blood tests can point to bacteria and guide treatment. Sometimes imaging (like an X-ray) helps for pneumonia. Cultures and sensitivity testing tell which antibiotic is likely to work best — that’s useful for recurrent or severe infections.

Treatment: antibiotics and what you need to know

Antibiotics can cure many bacterial infections, but using the right one for the right reason matters. Common choices include cephalexin (Phexin) for skin and some respiratory infections, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim for certain UTIs and skin infections, and clindamycin for specific skin and soft tissue problems. Each drug has pros and cons: stomach upset, diarrhea, or allergic reactions are possible.

Follow these rules: take the exact dose your doctor prescribes, finish the full course unless told otherwise, and don’t save antibiotics for later. Stopping early or taking them when not needed helps antibiotic resistance — that makes future infections harder to treat. If you get severe diarrhea, rash, or breathing problems after starting an antibiotic, stop and seek care right away.

Thinking of buying antibiotics online? Be cautious. Use licensed pharmacies and only after a proper diagnosis and prescription. Our site has guides on safe online pharmacies and specific drug pages like the Phexin (cephalexin) guide to help you learn more before you buy.

Simple steps cut your risk of bacterial infections: wash hands often, keep wounds clean and covered, cook food properly, stay up to date with vaccines (like tetanus and pneumococcal when recommended), and avoid close contact with sick people. For recurring issues, talk to your doctor about tests or preventive options.

If symptoms are mild and improving, rest, fluids, and symptom relief may be enough while you wait for a doctor’s advice. If symptoms are severe, rapidly worse, or you have risk factors (diabetes, poorly controlled chronic illness, weakened immune system), seek urgent care.

Want a deeper read? Check our guides on cephalexin (Phexin), sulfamethoxazole, and clindamycin for details on uses, dosing, and side effects to help you have smarter conversations with your clinician.