Our society has been so conditioned to popping a pill for any and all health problems that most of us do so without thinking twice. However, the fact is that literally all drugs have potentially serious side effects, and those that manufacture, sell, and regulate these concoctions know it. Today's post discusses an article highlighting the unfortunate death of a healthy teenager who used an antibiotic to "treat" his acne.
This tragic story brings several points to light. First off, the use of medications to treat acne does not address the true causes of this most common condition. Acne, as well as other skin conditions, in most situations, is a holistic concern that needs to be managed and prevented by pursuing a lifestyle that incorporates a natural and healthy diet, plenty of pure water, and proper cleansing of the intestinal tract, liver, and gallbladder. Proper attention should also be paid to hormonal balance. In addition, the skin should be kept clean using natural skin care products that are free of toxic chemicals and abrasives. Despite the many millions of dollars that are spent on acne treatments every year, both prescription and over-the-counter, the condition cannot be healed by these drugs, and the consequences of their use can be very serious indeed. The use of antibiotics to treat acne is quite common, but many in the health field are now stating that such practices can actually worsen acne because bacteria become stronger by building up a resistance to such drugs.
Whether its acne or any other health concern, do not casually use or give to your children any drug without thoroughly researching the potential side effects, or without determining if the concoction will actually help with healing or simply cover up the symptoms without addressing the core issues that are causing the condition. It is sad, but very true, that deaths such as those of this Welsh young man are not isolated. Thousands of people are killed or seriously affected by pharmaceutical drugs every year.
Teenager dies after suffering allergic reaction to acne tablets
Sarah Boseley, health editor
The Guardian
Thursday October 30 2008
A 14-year-old boy has died after suffering an allergic reaction to the acne medication he was given by his doctor, his father said yesterday.
An inquest into the death of Shaun Jones, from Rhydyfelin in Pontypridd, south Wales, has been opened and adjourned while further inquiries are made. Jones was said to be a fit and healthy rugby player, but appeared to suffer a severe reaction on October 21 after taking the first dose of antibiotic tablets.
Graeme Jones, the boy's father, said nobody was to blame and it was just "one of those terrible things."
"He was popular with the girls and had a couple of spots, so the doctor gave him some antibiotic acne tablets. A lot of his friends are taking them," Jones told BBC online news.
"It was the first time he'd taken them and he developed breathing difficulties. We called 999 and he went to hospital - but it was too late. The doctors couldn't save him.
"The doctor that gave him the tablets is really upset, but we don't blame him. It was just one of those terrible things. We're still coming to terms with losing him. One minute he was here and now he's gone.
"Shaun's little sister is devastated. She can't bear to leave our sides because she thinks something will happen to us too."
Jones declined to name the tablets while inquiries are ongoing. Many antibiotics commonly used to treat acne do have warnings of the possibility of allergic reactions, which can cause breathing difficulties, but deaths are rare.
Teresa Bates, a local councillor and governor at Hawthorn high school, which Shaun attended, said: "I understand he had acne and was given medication and had a massive allergic reaction to it.
"I know his grandmother and the family is devastated. So is the whole community."
Shaun played for his village rugby club. Rhydyfelin coach Dai Watkins said: "He was an awesome player whose name was first on the teamsheet."
"The fact that he was so fit and strong makes it all the harder to take. He was so dedicated and talented."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2008/oct/30/health-antibiotic
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