Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infection is caused by a type of bacteria that can overgrow in the gut when the normal balance of gut bacteria is disrupted. While some people may experience mild symptoms that go away on their own, most cases of C. diff infection require treatment to eliminate the bacteria and prevent complications.
C. diff infection can be hard to get rid of, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as dehydration, malnutrition and in some cases, colitis which is inflammation of the colon, or even sepsis. The symptoms may improve on their own but the risk of recurrence is high and the bacteria may still be present in the gut, which can lead to further infections.
It’s important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect that you have C. diff, as they will be able to properly diagnose the infection and provide the appropriate treatment. Early treatment can help prevent the infection from becoming more severe and reduce the risk of complications.