Clostridioides difficile, commonly known as C. diff, is a bacterium that can cause severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon. It is a frequent cause of infections acquired in healthcare settings.
What is C. diff and How It Spreads
C. diff typically resides in the gut without causing harm. However, when gut bacteria balance is disrupted, often by antibiotic use, C. diff can multiply rapidly and produce toxins. These toxins damage the intestinal lining, leading to inflammation known as colitis.
Transmission primarily occurs through the fecal-oral route. This means people can become infected by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with C. diff spores and then touching their mouth. C. diff spores are remarkably hardy; they can persist on surfaces for months, resisting many standard cleaning agents. This persistence makes healthcare environments, where antibiotic use is common and C. diff is prevalent, significant sites for exposure.
How Soon Do Symptoms Appear
The time it takes for C. diff symptoms to appear after exposure varies. While the incubation period is not precisely defined, symptoms commonly begin during or shortly after a course of antibiotics. Many experience symptom onset within a few days to two weeks after acquiring the bacteria.
Some studies indicate that symptoms can manifest within 48 hours of exposure, while others suggest they may not appear for up to three months, particularly after a hospital stay or antibiotic treatment. Timing depends on factors like immune status and C. diff strain. Individuals can carry the bacteria for extended periods, even without immediate symptoms.
Identifying C. diff Symptoms
Once an infection develops, symptoms indicate the presence of C. diff. The most common initial symptom is watery diarrhea, occurring three or more times a day. This diarrhea can range from mild to very frequent, sometimes up to 10 to 15 times daily in more severe cases.
Along with diarrhea, abdominal pain or cramping is typical. Other symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, and nausea. In severe infections, dehydration, rapid heart rate, and a swollen abdomen may occur. Traces of blood or pus might sometimes be present in the stool.
When to Consult a Doctor
If C. diff infection is suspected, seek medical attention. Contact a healthcare professional if you develop watery diarrhea three or more times a day that lasts for more than two days. This is especially true if you are currently taking or have recently finished a course of antibiotics.
Other concerning signs include a new fever, severe abdominal pain or cramping, or blood in your stool. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the infection from escalating to more serious complications.