Clostridium difficile is a bacteria found in the digestive tract that can cause infection, especially in those who have recently taken antibiotics. Symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal cramps, and severe cases can lead to complications such as kidney failure or even death. Treatment involves stopping antibiotics and possibly taking probiotics or a different antibiotic. Precautions such as reducing unnecessary antibiotic use and following hand washing guidelines can help prevent transmission.
Clostridium difficile, also known as C. diff or C. difficile, is a bacteria commonly found in the digestive tract. Clostridium difficile infection usually occurs in people who have recently undergone antibiotic treatment for the disease. Antibiotics can kill the “good” bacteria in your gut and allow “bad” bacteria like Clostridium difficile to take over and cause digestive tract disease and infection. Clostridium difficile infection rates have begun to increase even for previously healthy individuals.
These bacteria are more common in healthcare settings, such as hospitals. Clostridium difficile bacteria are hardy and can survive on surfaces for long periods of time. Unsuspecting individuals could touch and subsequently ingest the bacteria. Individuals are more at risk of Clostridium difficile infection if they are over 65, are taking antibiotics, live in a long-term care facility, or have had an extended hospitalization. Those with weakened immune systems, colon disease, or a history of Clostridium difficile infection are also at risk.
With a mild or moderate case of Clostridium difficile infection, symptoms include watery diarrhea several times a day and abdominal cramps. In the case of a more serious infection, the colon can become inflamed and the symptoms are more severe. They may include blood or pus in the stool, cases of diarrhea up to 15 times a day, fever, pain and nausea. This severe diarrhea can lead to weight loss and dehydration. Although Clostridium difficile infection can develop shortly after antibiotic therapy, symptoms may not appear until weeks or months afterward.
Doctors sometimes test for Clostridium difficile infection if a patient complains of diarrhea and cramping after antibiotic treatment. A doctor might use a stool test to determine the presence of bacteria-related toxins. The patient may be asked to have a colon exam or computed tomography (CT) scan to confirm the diagnosis.
The first step of treatment is for the patient to stop taking antibiotics. With mild infections, symptoms may resolve without further intervention. If the infection doesn’t clear up, a doctor might prescribe a different antibiotic to keep the Clostridium difficile bacteria from multiplying. A doctor might also recommend probiotics, which can help balance the bacteria in your digestive tract. In very severe cases, surgery may be required.
Clostridium difficile infection can cause serious complications if left untreated. Dehydration caused by recurring diarrhea can lead to kidney failure. An infection could even lead to a perforated bowel or toxic megacolon. With toxic megacolon, the colon dilates and may rupture. More serious complications of the infection can even lead to death.
Although Clostridium difficile infections can be serious, the prognosis is good for people who receive treatment. The transmission of Clostridium difficile can also be prevented with some precautions. Reducing unnecessary use of antibiotics can help reduce the risk for some people. Individuals in health care settings can also reduce the spread of infection by following guidelines for hand washing and cleaning.
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