Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Is It Necessary To Have Antibiotics For C.fifficile Infection?
Question: I tested positive for c. diff but feel as though I am getting better and have not had any symptoms for a few days. (only ever had a little diarrhea to being with) Is it possible my body is fighting this by itself? Should I start antibiotics even though I seem like I am getting better? My doctor prescribed and went out of town for 5 days so I am not sure what to do now.
Brief Answer:
I suggest you to observe yourself before medication.
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query at HCM.
I understand your concern and situation.
As mentioned that you had C.difficile diarrhea in that case you must stop any antibiotics if you are taking. In your case you seem to be getting better then there is no need for treatment. If you again develop mild infection of C. Difficile then you will need to be treated with metronidazole 500 mg orally three times per day for 10 days. Hand hygiene and barrier precautions, including gloves and gowns, should be used by all health-care workers and visitors. Probiotics help restore a healthy balance to the intestinal tract. Eat healthy diet and drink plenty of water.
Hope I answered your query.
If no clarification then you can close the discussion and rate the answer
A review will be appreciated.
Dr Sheetal Verma
I suggest you to observe yourself before medication.
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query at HCM.
I understand your concern and situation.
As mentioned that you had C.difficile diarrhea in that case you must stop any antibiotics if you are taking. In your case you seem to be getting better then there is no need for treatment. If you again develop mild infection of C. Difficile then you will need to be treated with metronidazole 500 mg orally three times per day for 10 days. Hand hygiene and barrier precautions, including gloves and gowns, should be used by all health-care workers and visitors. Probiotics help restore a healthy balance to the intestinal tract. Eat healthy diet and drink plenty of water.
Hope I answered your query.
If no clarification then you can close the discussion and rate the answer
A review will be appreciated.
Dr Sheetal Verma
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
You didn't answer my question. And are you a gastrointerilogisst? I wasn't taking antibiotics to get it. I just picked it up from a sick person. My question is CAN IT GO AWAY WITHOUT TREATMENT? Or should I take the flagyl I have been prescribed even though I am beginning to feel better???!!! Please answer the question more specifically!
Brief Answer:
Yes chances in your case that it may go on its own.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Based on your description, it doesn't seem to be serious enough to warrant antibiotic use. And since you are already getting better, this infection seems mild and there are chances it may resolve on its own also without medicines. You may wait for few days more before starting antibiotics. Continue probiotics and yogurts. If symptoms reappear / worsens, then you can start the course of antibiotics without delay.
In 20 to 30% of individuals who suffer from recurrent C.Diff infection require to be treated aggressively. From the details provided, there are no history of recurrent infection or a severe infection. Therefore you can wait without antibiotics. All I advise you is to wash your hands properly, eat lot of yogurt and take probiotics.
Best of health
Dr Sheetal Verma
Infectious diseases Specialist
Yes chances in your case that it may go on its own.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Based on your description, it doesn't seem to be serious enough to warrant antibiotic use. And since you are already getting better, this infection seems mild and there are chances it may resolve on its own also without medicines. You may wait for few days more before starting antibiotics. Continue probiotics and yogurts. If symptoms reappear / worsens, then you can start the course of antibiotics without delay.
In 20 to 30% of individuals who suffer from recurrent C.Diff infection require to be treated aggressively. From the details provided, there are no history of recurrent infection or a severe infection. Therefore you can wait without antibiotics. All I advise you is to wash your hands properly, eat lot of yogurt and take probiotics.
Best of health
Dr Sheetal Verma
Infectious diseases Specialist
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
