Infections If you suspect you have a bacterial infection, ask your doctor to take a culture of saliva or tissues or fluids from the infected area. If it is a bacterial infection, samples of different antibiotics can be placed in the growing bacteria to determine which will be the most effective in killing that specific bacteria; this is called a sensitivity test. If you do take antibiotics, be sure to supplement with acidophilus during and after the course of treatment. Symptoms Symptoms of infection include redness, inflammation, pain, swelling, and pus formation (abscess) at the site of the infection. Fever, cough, sneezing, fatigue, and bowel dysfunction (diarrhea) can also arise due to infection. Note: Antibiotics do not protect against viral infection or inflammatory conditions, although they are often prescribed for such conditions. Although antibiotics can be effective when used appropriately, especially for serious or life-threatening bacterial infections, their indiscriminate use is not advised. The indiscriminate use of antibiotics has produced multiple-drug-resistant bacterial strains of "super bugs" and is in danger of rendering antibiotics ineffective against life-threatening infections. Moreover, antibiotics destroy both harmful bacteria and the beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing digestive and gastrointestinal problems and systemic yeast (Candida albicans) overgrowth.   Causes Infection is a condition caused by the growth of disease-causing pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi) in the body. These infectious agents grow in colonies that are invasive and multiply, damaging cells by various means, including directly, through release of toxins, or through allergic reaction. Caution: If fever and painful joints occur, this may be a sign of an infectious disease that is spreading throughout the body. To be sure, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment Click Here For The Treatments