Learning About Clostridioides Difficile (C. diff) Infection

What is Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) colitis?

Clostridioides difficile (also called C. diff) are bacteria that can cause the large intestine, or colon, to swell and get inflamed. This inflammation, known as colitis, can cause belly cramps, watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and fever.

The infection is most common in people who are taking antibiotics or have taken them recently. It is also common in older people who are in hospitals and nursing homes and in people who are getting chemotherapy for cancer. C. diff also can be passed from person to person.

Colitis caused by C. diff can be mild or severe.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor may think you have Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) colitis if both of the following are true:

• You are taking, or you recently took, antibiotics.
• You have symptoms of the infection. These may include:
  • Watery diarrhea (which may contain blood or pus).
  • Swelling, cramps, pain, or tenderness in the belly.
  • A fever.

To confirm the diagnosis, a sample of your stool will be tested. The test will check for the C. diff bacteria. Another test may be done to look for the toxins that C. diff produces.

Your doctor may look at the inside of your colon through a thin, lighted tube called a colonoscope.

How can you avoid spreading C. diff infection?

When you have C. diff, you and everyone around you must take special care to avoid spreading it. You must use extra care after you use the bathroom.

The best way to prevent spreading the infection is to wash your hands well and often.

• Wash your hands with clean, running water and soap for at least 20 seconds.
• Pay special attention to your wrists, the backs of your hands, the palms of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails.
• Don't touch the faucet with your hand. Use a paper towel to turn off the water.

Don't use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer instead of washing your hands with soap and water. Sanitizer will not kill C. diff.

If you start having diarrhea again, contact your doctor right away. Your doctor will tell you when you no longer need to take special care to prevent spreading C. diff.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.