Often considered to be an easily treated side-effect of anti-biotic therapy, C-difficile associated diarrhea needs to be detected early and treated aggressively. A colon bacterial infection caused by an imbalance in the bacterial levels usually found in the colon, clostridium difficile infection results in the inflammation of the colon lining accompanied by high fever, abdominal pain, and severe diarrhea. However, keep in mind that not all strains of C-difficile are infectious.
In a normal person, good and bad bacteria co-exist in the large intestine, aiding in the processes of digestion and defecation. When the balance between the two is disrupted, a C-difficile infection results. In cases where prolonged use of antibiotics is known to be the cause of the onset of the colon bacterial infection, discontinuation of the said antibiotics is advised and a probiotic diet rich in helpful bacteria is recommended. Administering fluids and electrolytes may be needed if cases of severe dehydration, particularly among the elderly. Self-medication using over the counter anti-diarrheal drugs can in fact worsen the problem since they decrease bowel moment and the toxins in the intestines are not expelled.
There are several simple ways to avoid colon bacterial infection. Hygienic practices like washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after every visit to the restroom and proper disinfection of objects used by patients in hospitals are recommended.
Clostridium difficile treatment in a hospital environment is particularly needed for the elderly as their digestive and immune systems are weak. They also run the risk of dehydration with fatal consequences in the absence of a monitored diet and fluid intake. Simple meals of steamed vegetables, fruits, buttermilk, and tender coconut water will help the body recoup its strength. Meat, sugar, and salty foods should be avoided.
For the treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea like a colon bacterial infection, probiotic bacteria like certain strains of lactobacilli and Saccharomyces boulardii, a non-pathogenic yeast, have been found useful. Probiotic bacteria are found in fermented foods such as yoghurt. Probiotics colonize the intestines, restoring the balance of bacteria and inhibit the growth of C-difficile, thereby protecting the gut. Today, a lot of research is being conducted in examining the role of probiotics in the treatment and prevention of colon bacterial infection. This is because within the healthcare industry, hospitals, and clinics more and more virulent strains of C-difficile are seen every day as a consequence of the widespread use of broad spectrum antibiotics to treat various diseases.
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