C. Diff (also called "diverticulitis") is an overgrowth of bacteria that causes ulceration of the intestines. Approximately one-third of all cases of diverticulitis will involve infants. Most cases of diverticulitis are caused by prolonged use of antibiotics, particularly when you have been on them for a long period of time. The most common risk factor for diverticulitis is being elderly.
What are the symptoms of C. Diff? In adults, one or more of these symptoms may be present. The most common symptom is severe abdominal pain. On rare occasions, some people may experience fever and nausea. Sometimes there may be blood in the stool. If the infection becomes chronic, symptoms such as fever, chills, abdominal discomfort, and vomiting may appear.
How is C. Diff treated? Treatment involves the use of antibiotics to reduce bacterial load and restore the intestinal mucosa. The most common antibiotic for diverticulitis is amoxicillin (doxycycline), which is usually given for short periods of time.
If the infection is caused by C. Diff, you may be given additional treatment to correct any further complications of the disease. Antibiotics have also been found to cause intestinal bleeding and can lead to life-threatening intestinal obstruction, especially when used in very high doses. In addition to antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually steroids, have been used in some cases.
Is there a way to prevent C. Diff from occurring? There is no known cure. However, you can reduce your chances of developing diverticulitis by avoiding prolonged diarrhea, having regular bowel movements, and eating a balanced diet rich in fiber. If you do develop diverticulitis, see your doctor right away for appropriate treatment.
Can C. Diff be cured naturally? Yes. You can try a home remedy for diverticulitis, although some of these treatments have not been approved by the FDA.
Probiotic. Probiotic supplements help to strengthen the immune system by improving the body's ability to fight infections. These supplements can also help prevent future diverticulitis. For this reason, some researchers believe that it may help people recover from an intestinal infection.
Bifidus. Bifidus is another probiotic that helps to balance the amount of bacteria in the intestines. Studies show that probiotics may help reduce the severity of C. Diff by reducing the number of bacteria living in the intestines. Bifidus is often prescribed by doctors for people with irritable bowel syndrome.
Garlic. People who suffer from diverticulitis have found that adding garlic to their diet may reduce the symptoms. It can reduce the inflammation and ease abdominal pain. There is some evidence that suggests that adding garlic to the diet may improve the digestive health of people who suffer from recurrent diverticulitis.
Cranberry. The juice of cranberries has also been shown to help. It may also help prevent the development of diverticulitis by reducing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Studies have shown that drinking cranberry juice after a colon cleanse may help the body digest and remove mucus more efficiently.
Yoga postures. There are also some studies that show that yoga postures have helped treat symptoms of diverticulitis. They have been shown to improve the circulation of nutrients to the intestines, and this helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and parasites.
To help prevent diverticular cheilitis, keep the body's balance by drinking at least 8 glasses of water every day. Also, make sure to stay away from any foods that could be causing the infection, such as alcohol, caffeine, fatty foods, spicy foods, and foods with yeast and vinegar.