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Treatment of CDI has evolved, just like the organism! There are treatment standards of care formed by the Infectious Disease Society of America. This infection has a tendency to recur and become severe very quickly. Some patients will need colon removal (colectomy) to save their lives and resolve the problem. This is why it is so important to get the right treatment and stick to the standard of care. Be sure your healthcare provider is up to date and appropriate on this issue.
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CDI has evolved. Previously, it was linked to antiboitc use as we would supress 'good' bacteria, or normal flora, we would see the overgrowth of Clostridium occur. Now, however, this organism has developed a stronger toxin and is present in the general community outside of healthcare and antibiotic use. The stronger toxin is called "highly toxigenic" strains. You may see the terms HT-CDI as a name. It is highly contagious in the environment and is one of the few things not affected with the alcohol-based waterless cleansers. Soap and water are effective. Washing your hands with soap and water after using the restroom is very important---every time!
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Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is an overgrowth of a bacteri in the gut or colon. It is a bacteria that can 'turn on' its ability to produce a toxin, or chemical. This toxin damages the wall of the colon, which is our large bowel. Diarrhea results from this damage and the toxin production.Diarrhea can be defined as 3 or more loose or watery stools in a 24 hour period. Our bowels (colon) have millions of bacteria. These bacteria are called normal flora. This means they are supposed to be there. They help us digest our food, absorb nutrition and vitiamins. When the colon is damaged, these bacteria can invade its wall and cause it to swell, then even explolde! This is called "toxic megacolon". We like to get the colon to heal and stop the CDI before this happens! It is sometimes difficult to decide when to go to the doctor. Diarrhea can be caused from so many things, such as what we eat, viruses, other bacteria and stress. If a fever persists with diarrhea longer than two days, seeking medical attention would be wise.
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