About this topic
Clostridium difficile is often shortened to C. difficile or just C. diff. It is an infection caused by germs. These germs are often present in the healthy bowel. Other germs in your bowel keep these germs from growing out of control. Things like toilets, thermometers, and bedpans may have these germs living on them. The infection spreads by touching something with the germs on it and then touching some other person. Then, the normal germs of the bowel are upset. C. difficile may grow out of control causing swelling of the large bowel. This results in loose bowels or stools. The infection spreads easily from person to person. ‚
Treatment for C. diff often includes drinking more fluids and taking drugs to treat the infection. ‚
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What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to get this illness if you are over 65. Your risk is higher if you are on antibiotics and in a healthcare setting. It is also higher if you have problems with your immune system or a serious illness like diabetes. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Loose or watery stools
- Fever
- Upset stomach
- Not hungry
- Belly pain or soreness
- Low blood pressure
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- Stool sample
- CT scan
- Colonoscopy
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
The doctor will treat your signs. You may need drugs to treat this serious infection. The doctor may give you fluids to replace what you are losing with your loose stools. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to fight an infection. You may need a longer course of antibiotics than normal. Make sure you take all of your drugs as ordered. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Not enough fluid in your body
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Tear or hole in the bowel
- Bad swelling of the large bowel
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Wash your hands often. Good hand washing is the way to stop the spread of this infection.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds. Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing. Always wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers. Wash your hands before eating or making food.
- Do not take drugs called antibiotics unless ordered by your doctor.
- Wash countertops, toilets, bathroom surfaces with bleach-based cleaners.
Where can I learn more?
CDC ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/hai/organisms/cdiff/Cdiff-patient.html# ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Clostridium-difficile/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
Public Health Agency of Canada ‚
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/id-mi/cdiff-eng.php ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚