Jennifer Trust Information Information Sheet N° 010.
People who are affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy are more prone to respiratory infections. Due to weakened respiratory muscles the ability to cough is restricted, causing difficulty clearing secretions in the throat and lungs. Retained secretions are more likely to become infected which can lead to pneumonia and other infections.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy types II & III are not themselves life threatening, however the risk of respiratory infection can be. This statement is not aimed at creating panic, it is simply meant to highlight the potential need for vigorous intervention. There are several simple techniques, which can be used to reduce the risk of developing a severe respiratory infection.
This Information Sheet deals with antibiotics.
There is a current tendency for GPs to reduce prescriptions for antibiotics. The reason for this is that as a society we have relied heavily upon antibiotics and as time passes there are concerns that antibiotics may become increasingly ineffective.
Antibiotics will not help to cure a viral infection.
However with all rules there are exceptions and because of risk of secondary bacterial infections it is recommended that GPs have a lower threshold for prescription of antibiotics for people affected by SMA. In simple terms this means that GP's should prescribe antibiotics much earlier for some people with SMA, even if they are harbouring a viral infection (like a cold or flu) rather than a bacterial infection (like pneumonia).
This may be something you wish to discuss with your local practice. Experienced parents and adults quickly learn when it is advisable to begin a course of antibiotics and will have developed relationships with local health care professional to make this possible.
Prophylactic Antibiotics
Prophylactic simply means preventative. In some cases, for people who have repeated bouts of respiratory infection, it may be necessary to have antibiotics as a preventive measure over a longer than usual period of time. Prescription of prophylactic antibiotics does not necessarily reduce the need for other types of antibiotic during time of illness or infection. The decision to prescribe prophylactic antibiotics would usually be suggested when necessary by the person's GP or Consultant.
When is the right time to intervene?
It is of course impossible to give a hard and fast answer to this question, as this will depend on the individual, their general health, and their own ability to deal with infection and clear secretions. The simple answer is that if you are concerned then you should visit your GP.
A parent's perspective
"As the parent of a child with type II SMA we keep a supply of dried antibiotics in the cupboard, this means we can begin to give them as soon as we feel it is necessary. I would consider using antibiotics when:
- He has a heavy cold (bunged up noses always worry me especially if his general energy levels are low or his appetite is affected)
- A sore throat
- Any type of cough
- Any crackles in his chest or throat
To be honest I always feel happier taking him to the Doctor when he is ill, and if I am really worried I will call a Doctor out. We have recently developed an open door policy with our local hospital and if necessary can take him straight to the Children's Ward."
The decision to use antibiotics or any other medical intervention can only be made by an appropriate health care professional. Any concerns over health should be discussed with your Doctor. | 
