What Is C. diff?
4. Risk Factors
Although C. diff infection can occur in any individual regardless of gender or age, most patients who are affected are those who live in long-term care facilities and hospitals. Not only that, they also tend to have received antibiotics. Almost any antibiotic increases the possibility of the colonization of C. diff. However, the most common offenders are the medications that alter the balance of gastrointestinal bacteria.
These include broad spectrum penicillins, fluoroquinolones, clindamycin, and cephalosporins. C. diff infections are also more likely among populations who have a serious illness or are above 65 years of age. Powerful anti-ulcer medications such as proton-pump inhibitors can also increase the risk as it decreases the stomach acidity thereby reducing the ability to fight off the pathogen.
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