Clostridium difficile is a dangerous bacterium that has been in the news quite a bit recently. Caused by poor hygiene, it can have devastating effects on the intestines of those afflicted. Here is what you need to know about the Clostridium difficile bacterium and medical malpractice claims.

What is Clostridium Difficile?

Clostridium difficile, also known as C. diff, is a bacterium that causes severe, life-threatening inflammation to the intestines, especially the colon. C. diff most commonly affects the elderly, particularly those in long-term care facilities or hospitals. Recent studies and reports, however, have shown the C. diff bacterium and the associated complications have been infecting much younger patients previously not considered high risk.

According to the Mayo Clinic, C. diff infections affect roughly 500,000 people in the United States, with more and more suffering severe complications each year.

Symptoms of C. Diff Infections

Mild to Moderate Infections

Most patients infected by C. diff experience minor to moderate symptoms. Moreover, these symptoms usually develop within a week to 10 days after antibiotics have been given, and include:

• Mild abdominal cramping
• Mild tenderness in the abdominal area
• Regular diarrhea lasting several days

Severe Infections

In severe cases of infection, which as previously noted are more common in older people, C. diff may result in hospitalization from complications. Acute infection can cause inflammation of the colon – also known as colitis – and can sometimes lead to intestinal bleeding. Other signs and symptoms include:

• Extreme diarrhea – up to 15 times a day
• Rapid heart rate
• Bloody or puss-filled stools
• Severe dehydration
• Nausea
• Weight loss
• Kidney failure

How is C. Diff Spread?

C. diff is commonly spread through human feces and then through contact with contaminated objects or individuals. When hospitals fail to provide adequate hygiene and cleanliness, patients can quickly become infected with this dangerous bacterium.

C. Diff Liability

As Clostridium difficile has been a hot-button topic in the news and media, awareness of the factors that lead to its spread has grown. In fact, cleanliness and proper precautions are essential for keeping this bacterium at bay. When hospitals or clinics fail to take these precautions, people get sick.

C. diff is especially dangerous for those in hospitals and the elderly because it often strikes after a course of antibiotics is administered. While antibiotics are great for killing bacteria, they often kill so many good bacteria in the body that it becomes especially susceptible to infectious strains such as C. diff.

Contact an Experienced New Jersey Malpractice Attorney Today

If you suspect you or a family member was infected with the C. diff bacterium – potentially leading to severe health issues – contact an experienced and knowledgeable medical malpractice attorney right away. C. diff has the power to destroy lives, but only if medical personnel fail to take the appropriate steps to ensure hygiene and cleanliness.

At Rosetti & DeVoto P.C., our knowledgeable team is expert in all facets of personal injury cases, including medical malpractice and hospital negligence. In fact, we work tirelessly for our clients and aggressively fight for their rights to get them the best result. Call us today at 844-263-6260 for a free consultation.