Clostridioides difficile, often referred to as C. diff, is a type of bacteria that can lead to anything from mild discomfort to severe diarrhea. Each year, it causes around 500,000 infections in the U.S. This often happens after using antibiotics, which can eliminate the beneficial bacteria in your gut, or after a stay in the hospital.
Typical symptoms of C. diff include watery diarrhea lasting more than three days, nausea, stomach pain, and fever. Treatments usually involve antibiotics and measures to prevent dehydration and other issues.
There are three levels of C. diff infections: non-severe, severe, and fulminant. Fulminant infections are critical and require urgent medical attention. Some people might carry the bacteria without any symptoms, while others become ill upon exposure. The most prevalent symptom is watery diarrhea that lasts over three days. Serious symptoms that can arise include colon perforation, severe infections, and kidney failure.
C. diff infections arise from toxins produced by the bacteria, which are more severe than common causes of diarrhea like norovirus. The bacteria also produce spores that are tough for the body to eradicate. Antibiotics such as clindamycin, cephalosporins, ciprofloxacin, and levofloxacin can lead to C. diff infections by wiping out healthy bacteria that naturally protect the colon.
These infections are often contracted in hospitals or healthcare facilities. The primary risk factor is recent antibiotic use, which eliminates both harmful and protective bacteria in the body.
When diagnosing C. diff, healthcare providers will ask about recent antibiotic use and symptom onset, and likely request a stool sample for lab testing. They may perform two out of three specific tests to confirm the presence of C. diff.
The main goal of treatment is to eliminate the bacteria and alleviate symptoms like discomfort and dehydration. Common antibiotics used include vancomycin and fidaxomicin. Severe cases might require hospitalization for additional support such as IV fluids and medications.
C. diff can recur within two to eight weeks after initial treatment. If it keeps returning, a fecal microbiota transplant might be suggested to restore healthy bacteria in the gut.
To avoid it, or stop spreading it, wash your hands with soap and water, as hand sanitizers aren’t effective against C. diff spores. If recurrent infections occur, fecal transplants are effective in over 90% of cases. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications.
C. diff is highly contagious due to its spore-forming ability, which requires thorough cleaning with soap and water, or bleach solutions. Infections do not resolve on their own and need antibiotic intervention. Treatment with antibiotics usually lasts around 10 days, but recurrent cases might need extended courses.
