Clostridioides difficile infection
Description
Clostridioides difficile is a type of bacterial infection that causes diarrhea and colon inflammation (colitis). Clostridioides difficile infection is one of the most prevalent infections linked with healthcare, which is also a substantial source of morbidity and mortality, particularly in hospitalized older adults. When a healthcare-associated infection is discovered in a person over 65, one in eleven of them passes away within a month.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include :
- Watery diarrhea
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach pain
If you have recently taken antibiotics and are experiencing Clostridioides difficile infection symptoms, you should consult a general practice doctor (general practitioner) or Gastroenterologist.
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View MoreCauses
When a person uses antibiotics, the "good germs" in the intestines are eradicated, making it simpler for the Clostridioides difficile bacteria to enter the body. The bacteria can be discovered in stools and are passed from one person to another via unwashed hands, contaminated objects, or polluted surfaces.
Risk factors include :
- Age 65 or higher
- Recent hospital or nursing home stay
- Impaired immune systems, such as those with cancer, HIV/AIDS, or organ transplant recipients on immunosuppressive medications
- Previous exposure to Clostridioides difficile or prior Clostridioides difficile infection
Diagnostics
By examining the stool of patients who experience frequent watery diarrhea, such as three or more stools in a 24-hour period, Clostridioides difficile is identified.
Treatment
Your healthcare professional will often prescribe antibiotics to treat Clostridioides difficile (for example : vancomycin, fidaxomicin, metronidazole).
