Patients with Clostridium difficile

Patients with Clostridium difficile Often referred to as C. Difficile, or C. Diff, this is a condition that affects the large intestine or colon. It can be extremely uncomfortable and causes swelling and irritation in the lower intestines. The inflammation is known as colitis, and can result in diarrhea, fever, and intense abdominal cramps. It is extremely uncomfortable and can create for some embarrassing situations.

C. Difficile Causes Taking antibiotics is a common cause of this condition. It can be extremely difficult following surgeries when antibiotics are often prescribed. A patient that is connected to IV’s, and somewhat immobile following surgery, can have a very hard time trying to move quickly from a hospital bed to a restroom. Patients may be prescribed over the counter anti diarrhea medications to help control symptoms, however they often have minimal effect.

Risks C. Difficile does carry risks, and can range from mild to serious, depending on the patient and their immune system. Although rare, C. Difficile can cause death, however, in most cases it is treated and the patient improves within two weeks. Patients becoming dehydrated is a major concern.

Severe cases of the condition can result in 20 or more bowel movements in one day, leaving patients very dehydrated and lethargic. This is very inconvenient for surgical patients that are trying to get an adequate amount of rest and recuperation time, they may need to use disposable undergarments to help until the situation improves. Patients should be monitored closely for dehydration, and many patients avoid eating, so lack of caloric intake can be a problem.

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Contamination C. Difficile is contagious and precautions should be taken to prevent contamination. Paper gowns, masks and gloves are generally the protocol for most medical centers when caring for C. Diff patients. It is not uncommon for nursing homes to have major outbreaks of C. Difficile, in these cases; cross contamination can become a concern. In some cases it may be necessary to isolate patients, and sterilize areas to avoid the spread of the condition. Anytime an infected person uses the restroom and does not thoroughly wash their hands, anyone or anything they touch may be contaminated.

Patients Most at Risk Surgical patients are the most common group to contract C. Diff, however, there are other groups can pose risk factors as well. Patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments can be at risk due to compromised immune systems. This is potentially dangerous, as they may be forced off chemo in order to treat severe cases of C. Diff. Geriatric patients that have lowered immune systems are more susceptible to this condition. It can take a harsh toll on a frail body, the patient must be monitored very closely. Visitors should wear protective gear, and should be forewarned of the risks associated with close contact with the patient. Patients that take regularly prescribed or over the counter antacid medications may also be at an increased risk of developing this condition.

Understanding of C. Difficile The large intestines in the body contain good healthy bacteria that do not cause illness. When an antibiotic is prescribed to treat a disease, in most cases the antibiotic works well to kill off the bacteria, however, it can also kill off the good bacteria within the large intestines. This is when C. Difficile bacteria can begin to grow. As it grows, it releases harmful toxins which can make the patient endure not only stomach discomfort, but all over flu like symptoms and a low grade fever. As the toxins get released within the body, the colon becomes inflamed, which can create blood in the patient's stool. Patients should be monitored for blood loss and appropriate measures taken to avoid anemia. Patients may develop an abnormal heartbeat, this primarily occurs when dehydration is an issue. In severe cases a hole can perforate the lower intestinal wall, which could result in surgery, it's important to treat this condition aggressively to avoid complications.

Symptoms and Diagnosis Symptoms of C. Difficile can develop as soon as 4 days after taking an antibiotic. In some cases, symptoms do not begin until 2-4 weeks after taking antibiotics. Symptoms can be very mild, with a slight case of some diarrhea. Other people may experience stomach cramping and moderate diarrhea. In severe cases the patient may be incapacitated due to severe diarrhea. They can develop a fever, experience vomiting, and suffer from flu like symptoms. If a patient has been on antibiotics or has a compromised immune system, and shows any symptoms of C. Diff, they should be tested immediately.

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Treatment of C. Difficile Treatment of C. Difficile can be difficult, as it needs to be treated with antibiotics itself. There are certain types of antibiotics that target the area and will work to destroy the C. Diff contaminants. Patients should be advised to get plenty of fluids, IV fluids may become necessary as well.

Probiotics may offer some support, however, they are not enough to treat the condition on their own. Some patients have attempted to consume yogurt thinking it will treat the condition, however this is not enough to treat or cure C. Difficile. A physician will prescribe the appropriate antibiotic and protocol for treatment, and the patient should follow doctors orders exact.

Anti diarrhea medications may also be prescribed in order to control symptoms. Patients should get plenty of rest and try to consume a healthy diet, avoiding raw vegetables, and any meats not cooked thoroughly.

Symptoms should subside in 4-6 days with a marked improvement within 10 days. Patients should be advised that it is vital they complete their treatment of prescribed treatment, the bacteria can become resistant if all medications are not completed.

Although rarely fatal, this medical condition can be very hard on the body.

Constant diarrhea, occasional vomiting, and overall fatigue can quickly take a toll on anyone, in particular those who have undergone surgery, or have a weakened immune system. Proper care, treatment and precautions should be exercised, and in most cases the patient recovers completely in less than a month.

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