Risk factors of the Infection
Although a C. Difficile infection only occurs in the presence of the bacteria, there are other factors that increase the risk of it. One might have the bacteria in their gut for long without any obvious signs of disease because other bacteria in the gut keep the C. Difficile bacteria under control. However, on administering certain antibiotics to fight several types of bacteria in the body, a response may be triggered. This is because the bacteria responsible for keeping the C. Difficile bacteria under control had probably been tampered with.
People who have to stay in a hospital for a long-term treatment, or perhaps those receiving any other long-term care services at nursing homes, are at risk of the infection. During such periods, a person is more likely to take antibiotics treatment, have a weakened immune system, and have higher exposure to germs. Elderly people, especially those above 65 years of age, run a risk of developing C. Difficile infection. Problems with certain regions related to the large intestine can be real causes for alarm. For example, in cases of kidney disease, colorectal cancer, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). [1]
Other serious risk factors for C. Difficile infection include taking a PPI (proton pump inhibitor) medication, which is normally used for treating stomach acids; and having had surgery involving the gastrointestinal tract. A weak immune system due to other diseases might be a risk factor too. [2]
