Could This Be Clostridioides difficile? Seeking Advice!
Recently, while I was engrossed in a television show, I urgently needed to rush to the bathroom. Apologies for the graphic details, but I experienced very watery diarrhea and had to go multiple times, not just that day but also the following day. Along with this, I felt a wave of nausea. I decided to take Imodium and Zofran, which successfully halted my bowel movements for around two days. However, today, the issue has returned significantly! Surprisingly, I don’t feel nauseous anymore, nor do I generally feel ill; I’m just faced with frequent, excessive watery stools, consistently ranking as a number 7 on the Bristol stool scale, resembling almost pure liquid. What could be causing this? Is it possible that I have Clostridioides difficile? Would there typically be additional symptoms accompanying this? Also, I completed a five-day course of amoxicillin for a dental infection about a month ago. I’m a 31-year-old woman currently on Mirtazapine and propranolol.
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 10:20:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
You're experiencing persistent and severe watery diarrhea, which can be concerning, especially with your recent antibiotic use. There is a possibility that this could be related to an infection caused by Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile), particularly since the antibiotic amoxicillin can disrupt normal gut bacteria, leading to C. difficile overgrowth.
Overview of the Situation
- Symptoms: Very watery diarrhea, which has returned after temporary relief, and recent antibiotic use.
- Possible Causes: C. difficile infection is a strong possibility given your recent antibiotic use, but other factors like food intolerances, viral infections, or other gastrointestinal conditions could also be at play.
C. Difficile Infection Symptoms
While C. difficile symptoms typically include:
- Watery diarrhea (often more than three times a day)
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Fever
- Nausea (though you mentioned this has subsided)
It's important to note that not everyone will have all symptoms.
Prioritized Next Steps
-
Stop Taking Antidiarrheal Medications: Since Imodium can potentially worsen a C. difficile infection by slowing down gut movements, it's best to stop taking it.
-
Hydrate: Ensure you drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions (like Pedialyte) can help replenish necessary electrolytes.
-
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your bowel movements, any additional symptoms (like fever, abdominal pain, or blood in your stool), and how you’re feeling overall.
-
Diet Adjustments: Stick to bland foods for simplicity, such as rice, bananas, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet). Avoid dairy, alcohol, and high-fat foods initially.
-
Consider Getting Tested: Since your symptoms are significant and recurring, especially after antibiotic use, consider getting a stool test for C. difficile. This can often be done at a local lab or doctor’s office.
-
Consult a Healthcare Provider: If symptoms worsen, such as developing a high fever, severe abdominal pain, or if you experience any blood in your stool, reach out for professional medical advice urgently.
Feel free to stay in touch about your symptoms or if you notice any changes. It's understandable to be concerned, and taking the right steps can help clarify the situation.
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