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Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) colitis

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Clostridioides difficile colitis (or C. diff colitis) is inflammation of the large intestine (colon) caused by a certain type of bacteria (C. diff). It sometimes occurs after a hospital stay or antibiotic treatment.

Symptoms (which can be mild or severe) include stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and fever. The first step in treatment for C. diff colitis is to stop taking the antibiotics that caused the infection, if possible. Treatment also may include taking an antibiotic that specifically kills C. diff.

You may get a medicine called a bile salt binder (such as cholestyramine) that can help control the diarrhea. And probiotics, which are bacteria that help keep the natural balance of organisms (microflora) in the intestines, may be helpful for people who have repeated C. diff infections.

In some cases, a fecal transplant can be done that restores good bacteria to the colon and helps get rid of the C. diff infection.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.