Clostridioides difficile (also known as C. difficile or C. diff.) is a bacterium that causes colitis, or inflammation (swelling) of the colon. The infection usually occurs when people, particularly the elderly who are also receiving medical care, take antibiotics over a long period of time. Show
OverviewWhat is Clostridioides difficile?Clostridioides difficile (pronounced klos-TRID-e-OY-dees dif-uh-SEEL), also known as C. diff. or C. difficile), is a germ that can cause diarrhea or a more serious intestinal condition such as colitis. Symptoms and CausesWhat causes Clostridioides difficile?When a person takes antibiotics, the “good germs” in the intestines are killed off making it easier to become infected by the Clostridioides difficile germ. The germ is found in stool (bowel movement), and is spread to other people by unwashed hands, contaminated surfaces, or objects. In a healthcare setting, the germs have been found on objects such as toilets, bathroom fixtures, bed rails, and rectal thermometers. The germ is able to survive for a very long time on a variety of surfaces. What are the symptoms of Clostridioides difficile?Symptoms may include:
Diagnosis and TestsHow is Clostridioides difficile infection diagnosed?Clostridioides difficile is diagnosed by testing the stool of patients who are having frequent liquid diarrhea such as 3 or more stools in a 24 hour period. In a severe case, a procedure called flexible sigmoidoscopy may be performed to confirm that the lower part of the intestine (colon) is inflamed. In this procedure a long, thin tube called a sigmoidoscope is placed inside the intestine to allow a doctor to visually examine the colon. Management and TreatmentHow is Clostridioides difficile infection treated?Clostridioides difficile is usually treated with antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare provider. In rare severe cases, a person might need to have surgery to remove the infected part of the intestine. Patients who have Clostridioides difficile infection should not use drugs to control diarrhea unless prescribed by their healthcare provider as this could make the infection worse. PreventionClostridium difficile: Infection Prevention and Contact PrecautionsWhat can be done to prevent Clostridioides difficile infection?To prevent Clostridioides difficile infection, hospitals and nursing homes take the following precautions:
When caring for patients with Clostridioides difficile hospitals and nursing homes will:
Hospitals and nursing homes may also ask the patient’s visitors to:
What do I do after returning home from the hospital?You can return to your normal routine once you are back at home. The diarrhea is often better or gone before you go home, which makes the spread of Clostridioides difficile to others much less likely. You can lower the chances of developing Clostridioides difficile infection again or spreading it to others. For example:
Outlook / PrognosisWhat happens after treatment for Clostridioides difficile infection?Antibiotics for Clostridioides difficile are usually an effective treatment. Fever usually goes away within 2 days, and diarrhea ends in 2 to 4 days. In about 10-20% of patients, symptoms may recur (return) within 1 to 2 weeks of ending treatment. Tell your healthcare provider if your diarrhea returns. Share Email Print Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/24/2019. References
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Can I Spread C. diff to my family?diff germs are carried from person to person in poop. If someone with C. diff (or caring for someone with C. diff) doesn't clean their hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, they can spread the germs to people and things they touch.
Should you stay away from people if you have C. diff?The risk of spreading C. diff after completing treatment is low. But if you're carrying the germ even without symptoms (see the “Your Risk of C. diff” page), you can still spread it to others.
Can you share a bathroom with someone who has C. diff?If you have to share a bathroom, be sure the area has been cleaned well with bleach products before others use it. When cleaning, pay special attention to areas like toilet flushers, lids and seats, sink handles, and doorknobs. Take showers, if able, and wash with soap to remove any C.
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