Nursing homes can be breeding grounds for Clostridium difficile, a type of bacteria known for causing a painful condition called colitis. In some cases, nursing home residents are neglected and not given the proper medical care they need to treat cases of colitis before they spiral out of control, become painful, or even dangerous. If your loved one has suffered due to neglect, contact a Louisville nursing home abuse attorney immediately.
What is Clostridium difficile colitis?
Clostridium difficile colitis is a condition caused by the presence of the bacteria Clostridium difficile (also known as C. difficile). This bacteria causes colitis, characterized by inflammation often accompanied by swelling and irritation in the colon. Colitis can cause abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and fever.
C. difficile colitis can be contracted from antibiotics or from person to person, but it’s most common in the elderly in nursing homes and hospitals where they are often prescribed antibiotics and are exposed to bacteria.
The severity of C. difficile colitis ranges from extremely mild cases to the very grave, and in some cases, it has even proven fatal.
Causes of C. Difficile Colitis
The colon, or large intestine, is home to many different kinds of bacteria that are a natural part of the body’s enzyme processes and maintain a healthy, disease-free environment. In some cases, particularly for older or weaker patients, taking antibiotics to kill disease-producing bacteria may also kill good bacteria.
When that happens too much, C. difficile bacteria, which is more robust against antibiotics than other bacteria, can grow unchecked in the colon and excrete toxins into the system. When the colon becomes too toxic, it becomes irritated and inflamed.
Has Your Loved One Been Injured In A Nursing Home?
If you believe your loved one is being subjected to nursing home abuse you need to speak with an experienced Kentucky nursing home neglect attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our office directly at 888.450.4456 to schedule a free consultation.
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