Overview
C. difficile occurs when antibiotic use disrupts the healthy gut microbiome, allowing C. diff bacteria to multiply and release toxins that inflame the colon.
Risk Factors
• Recent antibiotics
• Hospitalization
• Age 65+
• Weak immune system
• Proton pump inhibitors
Symptoms
• Watery diarrhea (3+ times/day)
• Strong stool odor
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Nausea
• Dehydration
• Severe cases: toxic megacolon
Diagnosis
• Stool toxin test
• PCR for C. diff genes
• Colonoscopy if severe
Treatment
• Vancomycin or Fidaxomicin
• Hydration therapy
• Fecal microbiota transplant (recurrent cases)
• Stopping unnecessary antibiotics
Prevention
• Handwashing (soap > sanitizer)
• Avoid unnecessary antibiotics
Self-Management
Monitor stool frequency, fluids, fever, and food tolerance using the app.