Clostridioides difficile, or C. diff, is a bacterium that can lead to intestinal illness. It primarily affects the colon, causing inflammation. While C. diff can exist harmlessly in the gut, an imbalance allows it to proliferate and cause symptoms.
The Link Between C. difficile and Nausea
Nausea can be a symptom of C. diff, though often not the most prominent. The bacterium produces potent toxins, Toxin A and Toxin B, which bind to intestinal cells, disrupting their function.
These toxins damage the colon lining, leading to inflammation (colitis). This irritation within the gastrointestinal tract can result in digestive disturbances, including nausea.
While watery diarrhea is the most common and often first symptom, nausea can occur due to the widespread impact of toxins on the intestinal environment. Nausea severity, like other symptoms, varies with the extent of intestinal damage.
Other Common Symptoms of C. difficile Infection
Beyond nausea, C. diff infection presents with several common symptoms. The most characteristic is watery diarrhea, frequent and severe, occurring three or more times a day for several days. In severe cases, diarrhea can occur 10 to 15 times daily.
Abdominal pain and cramping are also common, ranging from mild tenderness to severe discomfort. Fever is another common indicator, with body temperature potentially rising above 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit).
Loss of appetite is frequently reported, sometimes leading to weight loss. Some individuals may also experience a rapid heart rate, particularly in more severe infections.
When to Seek Medical Attention for C. difficile Symptoms
Seek medical attention if you suspect a C. diff infection, especially if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience watery diarrhea three or more times a day for over one day, or if symptoms last more than two days.
Seek prompt evaluation if diarrhea is accompanied by a new fever, severe abdominal pain or cramping, or blood in the stool. Signs of dehydration, such as extreme thirst, dizziness, or reduced urination, also warrant immediate medical attention.
Diagnosis typically involves laboratory tests of a stool sample to detect C. diff or its toxins. Common diagnostic methods include nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) for bacterial DNA and enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) to identify toxins A and B.