Meet Mary, whose life was taken over by abdominal pain and diarrhea. These symptoms eventually led to her losing her job, and she missed out on spending time with her grandchildren due to fear of them getting sick too. A visit to Dr. Teena Chopra revealed that Mary had developed colitis, caused by a bacterial infection known as Clostridioides difficile or C. diff. This infection has become increasingly prevalent due to factors such as antibiotic use and exposure to hospital environments. In the U.S., C. diff is the most common healthcare-associated infection, with a significant number of cases and deaths reported annually. What’s even more concerning is the rise in recurring infections, making C. diff a public health threat. But what exactly causes it and who’s at risk?
As Dr. Chopra explains, C. diff infections occur when bad bacteria overpower healthy ones in the gut, leading to an imbalance known as dysbiosis. This imbalance allows C. diff bacteria to grow and produce toxins that cause an inflammatory response in the colon, triggering a range of symptoms. Antibiotic use, exposure to healthcare settings, and certain health conditions or treatments can all contribute to an increased risk of C. diff infection, with women facing unique challenges due to factors such as reproductive anatomy, pregnancy, and greater exposure to healthcare environments.
Fortunately, there are measures women can take to reduce their risk, such as practicing good hand hygiene, using bleach to clean surfaces, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Chopra emphasizes the importance of creating awareness and education around C. diff infection, particularly in underserved communities. By doing so, women can empower themselves to prioritize their health and well-being, while also taking steps to protect themselves from this potentially serious infection.
