ileostomy and C. Diff

[lisad]

Does anyone have any experience with C. Diff in someone with an ileostomy? We're not sure what to expect since the colon is bypassed. Also, how long can the heme + stools last?

[Bobbie]

lisad,
Those are medical questions, & this isn't a medical site. Best to ask your docs. these questions. Several on this site have had surgery, however, & jopefully will share their experiences.

Re. your C. diff., read the first forum ALL USERS READ THIS FIRST & its subtopics. Dr. Borody's & Dr. McDonald's articles have a lot of info. on the disease. Also, read any pertinent topics in FAQ, especially Hygiene & Tests.

Sorry for your multiple problems. Remember, about 80% of people with c. diff. recover with one to two rounds of medication. Hope you are one of the lucky ones. I don't know if the surgery will affect your recovery -- best to ask your docs.

Let us know how you are doing.

[Sheila1]

Hi lisad,

As Bobbie said, this is definitely a doctor question. CDiff is so very individualized, even without the ileostomy added in, that not even a doctor could say how long the symptoms might last. For some, once treatment begins, symptoms resolve within a couple days and they feel great. Others continue to have some form of milder symptoms for weeks (or months), even on Flagyl or Vancomycin treatment.

If symptoms persist or become worse you definitely should call your doctor and let him/her know. Sometimes a different medication can be called for, or a different dosage, or even a combination of medicines.

You might also ask your doctor about probiotics, they help many CDiff victims but not all.