Last January, I suffered from a severe sinus infection and visited urgent care where the doctor diagnosed fluid in my ears and prescribed antibiotics. However, after taking the antibiotics, I experienced severe stomach pain and increased sensitivity to many foods. My mild irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms worsened, and I had urgency to go to the bathroom, which often felt uncontrollable.
Despite these symptoms persisting even after finishing the antibiotics, my healthcare provider initially dismissed it as a virus. As my symptoms worsened, I visited urgent care again, but was told the same thing. Eventually, I was rushed to the ER due to severe diarrhea and fever, and was diagnosed with C. diff, a bacteria that causes inflammation of the colon.
After taking antibiotics to treat the C. diff, the symptoms returned, and I struggled to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. I lost 14 pounds and experienced four recurrences of C. diff before finally finding a compassionate infectious disease specialist who created a concrete treatment plan for me.
Although I am now free of infection, I faced significant challenges while dealing with healthcare professionals who did not understand C. diff. I urge others who are going through similar experiences to be their own advocate and seek support groups for validation and helpful suggestions. With the right support, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
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