Jump to content
×
Are you looking for the BariatricPal Store? Go now!

Recommended Posts

She needed to go fetch some labels for my bloods and the poop pot. I last saw it on the wooden desk where everyone sits in the Surgical Assessment Unit.

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Good Heavens! Reading about this on the internet is very scary! Perforated bowels etc. Very worrying!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

The bottom line on transmission for c.diff is that poop particles (and they can be microscopic) have to be transferred from one person to another to catch it. It's very hard to keep the particles contained when the patient has explosive and incontinent watery stool. But that's the transmission route. Coughing, sneezing, other physical contact, blood contact - none of these things will transfer c.diff unless there's poop particles in it. I worked with a nurse who didn't bleach her shoes, and her dogs ended up with c.diff. Now THERE was a mess!!!

Something a lot of people aren't aware of - if you leave your toilet seat open when you flush, microscopic particles of whatever you're flushing get sprayed up to 6 feet. So it's scary easy to get those microscopic particles on your clothes, towels, sinks, toothbrushes, etc.

But unless you've had incontinence that soiled your furniture, the main place people can come into contact with it is in the bathroom. Transmission for casual contact like for the movers would require that you had gotten those particles on the boxes and furniture. AND that they touched those things with their bare hands AND that they ate something that they touched with their hands without washing their hands. And note that c.diff doesn't infect most healthy people. Usually people who get c.diff infections have their immunity compromised in some way - age, illness, medications, etc.

If you do have soft furniture (couches, mattress, etc.) that has been soiled, you'll need to find out if there's any cleaning agent you can use that will be effective without ruining the furniture. If possible, I'd consider just chucking it, frankly.

This link has some information about cleaning:

https://cdifffoundation.org/c-diff-infection-%E2%99%A5-home-care/

As for the antibiotics, yes, you are technically more susceptible to a return of c.diff after taking them, but you'll never clear the infection on your own without them. All you can really do is do as much as you can to get your Protein in (which will be easier after they stop the diarrhea) and all the little things to try and stay as healthy as you can otherwise. It may very well take several rounds with the meds to stop this. And it may even take a fecal transplant.

I can't comment on the handling of your samples without getting unladylike. I understand that things are handled differently in the UK, but here in the US, I'd be speaking to an attorney and filing a complaint with JCAHO, CMS, and the state hospital board (basically all of the licensing and certification organizations). If they're that casual with stool samples, then they're not doing due diligence in preventing infections all the way around. I wouldn't be surprised to find a number of hospital-acquired infections in every one of your friends who are also having problems.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

The bottom line on transmission for c.diff is that poop particles (and they can be microscopic) have to be transferred from one person to another to catch it. It's very hard to keep the particles contained when the patient has explosive and incontinent watery stool. But that's the transmission route. Coughing, sneezing, other physical contact, blood contact - none of these things will transfer c.diff unless there's poop particles in it. I worked with a nurse who didn't bleach her shoes, and her dogs ended up with c.diff. Now THERE was a mess!!!

Something a lot of people aren't aware of - if you leave your toilet seat open when you flush, microscopic particles of whatever you're flushing get sprayed up to 6 feet. So it's scary easy to get those microscopic particles on your clothes, towels, sinks, toothbrushes, etc.

But unless you've had incontinence that soiled your furniture, the main place people can come into contact with it is in the bathroom. Transmission for casual contact like for the movers would require that you had gotten those particles on the boxes and furniture. AND that they touched those things with their bare hands AND that they ate something that they touched with their hands without washing their hands. And note that c.diff doesn't infect most healthy people. Usually people who get c.diff infections have their immunity compromised in some way - age, illness, medications, etc.

If you do have soft furniture (couches, mattress, etc.) that has been soiled, you'll need to find out if there's any cleaning agent you can use that will be effective without ruining the furniture. If possible, I'd consider just chucking it, frankly.

This link has some information about cleaning:

https://cdifffoundation.org/c-diff-infection-%E2%99%A5-home-care/

As for the antibiotics, yes, you are technically more susceptible to a return of c.diff after taking them, but you'll never clear the infection on your own without them. All you can really do is do as much as you can to get your Protein in (which will be easier after they stop the diarrhea) and all the little things to try and stay as healthy as you can otherwise. It may very well take several rounds with the meds to stop this. And it may even take a fecal transplant.

I can't comment on the handling of your samples without getting unladylike. I understand that things are handled differently in the UK, but here in the US, I'd be speaking to an attorney and filing a complaint with JCAHO, CMS, and the state hospital board (basically all of the licensing and certification organizations). If they're that casual with stool samples, then they're not doing due diligence in preventing infections all the way around. I wouldn't be surprised to find a number of hospital-acquired infections in every one of your friends who are also having problems.

I see that FMT is available here in the UK on the NHS so I will find out what the plan on managing this is.

You will understand that I have lost a bit of faith in their processes but it is what it is.

No soiled furniture etc but thank you for the info.

I am concerned about the blood, white mucus etc. How do I know if my bowel is in trouble?

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Would colonic irrigation help or hinder?

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Omg... I was going to ask if they checked you for that with your fecal incontinance. I have known older people that have had it. Very nasty disease. When my grandfather had it about 7 years ago in his 90s and the standard of care was flagyl. Now in the USA they can do fecal transplants... Sounds disgusting but can be a better option. For older patients it can be life saving since morality for elderly is not good. I hope you get the best treatment possible.. In your health care you obviously need to be a strong advocate for yourself. Best of luck!!!

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Your docs will need to evaluate the blood and mucus. Could be nothing, could be something. No way to know without a doc investigating. I would under no circumstances do colonic irrigation. There's too high a risk of complications and contamination.

sent from mobile device

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Omg... I was going to ask if they checked you for that with your fecal incontinance. I have known older people that have had it. Very nasty disease. When my grandfather had it about 7 years ago in his 90s and the standard of care was flagyl. Now in the USA they can do fecal transplants... Sounds disgusting but can be a better option. For older patients it can be life saving since morality for elderly is not good. I hope you get the best treatment possible.. In your health care you obviously need to be a strong advocate for yourself. Best of luck!!!

Am on Flagyl now. I plan to keep on top of this. I am going to contact the infectious disease team at the hospital myself.

I am worried about pain in my bowel and the length of time the inflammation has been present. Blood is never a good sign.

I don't want to make a fuss but at this point, I am getting a bit fed up with the lack of post op care that I am receiving.

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Your docs will need to evaluate the blood and mucus. Could be nothing, could be something. No way to know without a doc investigating. I would under no circumstances do colonic irrigation. There's too high a risk of complications and contamination.

sent from mobile device

They have postponed the colonoscopy for two weeks. Not sure how I feel about having another procedure while having C Diff.

I am supplied with a home system for bowel wash out (fancy enema kit) so wondered if that would help get rid of this vile infection.

But thanks for pointing me in the right direction!

I appreciate the advice!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Your docs will need to evaluate the blood and mucus. Could be nothing, could be something. No way to know without a doc investigating. I would under no circumstances do colonic irrigation. There's too high a risk of complications and contamination.

sent from mobile device

They have postponed the colonoscopy for two weeks. Not sure how I feel about having another procedure while having C Diff.

I am supplied with a home system for bowel wash out (fancy enema kit) so wondered if that would help get rid of this vile infection.

But thanks for pointing me in the right direction!

I appreciate the advice!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I wouldn't think an enema would help. I certainly wouldn't do it without the doc saying to do it.

sent from mobile device

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I worked in nursing and they usually diagnose it once they see the stool and smell the stool. C-diff has a pungent sweet smell. And has a slime texture. Once you've smelled it its unmistakable. If at home Kefir is a very good form of natural probiotic. It contains a living culture that can fight the bacteria. First antibiotic therapy though. The complications you've experienced are classic causes to open you up with a low immunity. So Kefir is what you use once home. Do not add sweeteners. Put it into you Protein shake as you liquid. It will rebound your good gut bacteria. Then start putting Chlorophyll into Water. It will strengthen and remove toxins. You will crave it once you start it. Good wishes!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I worked in nursing and they usually diagnose it once they see the stool and smell the stool. C-diff has a pungent sweet smell. And has a slime texture. Once you've smelled it its unmistakable. If at home Kefir is a very good form of natural probiotic. It contains a living culture that can fight the bacteria. First antibiotic therapy though. The complications you've experienced are classic causes to open you up with a low immunity. So Kefir is what you use once home. Do not add sweeteners. Put it into you Protein shake as you liquid. It will rebound your good gut bacteria. Then start putting Chlorophyll into Water. It will strengthen and remove toxins. You will crave it once you start it. Good wishes!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

You are right. The slime is shocking.

Will look into kefir.

Thank you for your help!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

My bariatric nurse and GP doesn't know the answer so I am just throwing this out there. I am three months into a six months course of lansoprazole. PPI's apparently aren't good when you have C Diff.

Should I stop taking it for now to give my body a chance to get rid of this?

If my bariatric team doesn't know and my GP doesn't know, next point of call? Infectious disease team ?

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I worked in nursing and they usually diagnose it once they see the stool and smell the stool. C-diff has a pungent sweet smell. And has a slime texture. Once you've smelled it its unmistakable. If at home Kefir is a very good form of natural probiotic. It contains a living culture that can fight the bacteria. First antibiotic therapy though. The complications you've experienced are classic causes to open you up with a low immunity. So Kefir is what you use once home. Do not add sweeteners. Put it into you Protein shake as you liquid. It will rebound your good gut bacteria. Then start putting Chlorophyll into Water. It will strengthen and remove toxins. You will crave it once you start it. Good wishes!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

It *IS* a distinctive smell... I'm wondering why no one picked up on it before. :/

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

My bariatric nurse and GP doesn't know the answer so I am just throwing this out there. I am three months into a six months course of lansoprazole. PPI's apparently aren't good when you have C Diff.

Should I stop taking it for now to give my body a chance to get rid of this?

If my bariatric team doesn't know and my GP doesn't know, next point of call? Infectious disease team ?

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I can't honestly remember what all we had our c.diff patients on... I'm thinking we were doing Protonix (pantoprazole), but I could be wrong, it's been a few years. I would think the infectious disease team would be the most knowledgeable regarding the latest research on c.diff. I would take what they say over anyone else.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Will talk to them if I can find out how to contact them. Would love to see the letter that they sent my GP anyway. Perhaps I can convince the secretary to pass me a direct number.

Problem is that one team says, ask the other team etc.

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now

  • Trending Products

  • Trending Topics

  • Recent Status Updates

    • LeighaTR

      I am new here today... and only two weeks out from my sleeve surgery on the 23rd. I am amazed I have kept my calories down to 467 today so far... that leaves me almost 750 left for dinner and maybe a snack. This is going to be tough for two weeks... but I have to believe I can do it!
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Doughgurl

      Hey everyone. I'm new here so I thought I should introduce myself. I am 53y/o and am scheduled for Gastric Bypass on June 25th, 2025. I'm located in San Antonio, Texas. I will be having my surgery in Tiajuana Mexico. I've wanted this for years, but I always had insurance where bariatric procedures were excluded. Finally I am able to afford to pay out of pocket.  I can't wait to get started, and I hope I'm prepared for the initial period of "hell". I know what I have signed up for, but I'm sure the good to come will out way the temporary period of discomfort and feelings of regret. I'd love to find people to talk to who have been through the same procedure or experience before. So I look forward to meeting you all. Hope you have a great week!
      · 2 replies
      1. Selina333

        I'm so happy for you! You are about to change your life. I was so glad to get the sleeve done in Dec. I didn't have feelings of regret overall. And I'm down almost 60 lbs. I do feel a little sad at restaurants. I can barely eat half a kid's meal. I get adults meals often because kid ones don't have the same offerings at times. Then I feel obligated to eat on that until it's gone and that can be days. So the restaurant thing isn't great for me. All the rest is fine by me! I love feeling full with very little. I do wish I could drink when eating. And will sip at the end. Just a strong habit to stop. But I'm working on it! You will do fine! Just keep focused on your desire to be different. Not better or worse. But different. I am happy both ways but my low back doesn't like me that heavy. So I listened (also my feet!). LOL! Update us on your journey! I'm not far from you. I'm in Houston. Good luck and I hope it all goes smoothly! Would love to see pics of the town you go to for this. I've never been there. Neat you will be traveling for this! Enjoy the journey. Take it one day at a time. Sometimes a few hours at a time. Follow all recommendations as best you can. 💗

      2. Doughgurl

        Thank you so much for your well wishes. I am hoping that everything goes easy for me as well. We don't eat out much as it is, so it wont be too bad in that department. Thankfully. Also, I hear you regarding your back and feet!! I'd like to add knees to the list. Killing me as we speak! I'm only 5' so the weight has to go. Too short to carry all this weight. Menopause really did a doosey on me. (😶lol) My daughter also lives in Houston. with her Husband and my 5 grand-littles. I grew up in Beaumont, so I know Houston well, I will be sure to keep in touch and update you on my journey. I may need some advice in the future, or just motivation. Thank You so much for reaching out, I was hoping to connect with someone in the community. I really appreciate it. 💜

    • Alisa_S

      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
      of something and I'm not sure what to do about it. For years the only thing I've enjoyed is eating. We rarely do anything or go anywhere and if we do it always includes food. Family comes over? Big family dinner! Go camping? Food! Take a short ride or trip? Food! Holiday? Food! Go out of town for a Dr appointment? Food! When we go to a new town we don't look for any attractions, we look for restaurants we haven't been to. Heck, I look forward to getting off work because that means it's almost supper time. Now that I'm drinking these pre-op shakes for breakfast, lunch, and supper I have nothing to look forward to.  And once I have surgery on June 11th it'll be more of the same shakes. Even after pureed stage, soft food stage, and finally regular food stage, it's going to be a drastic change for the rest of my life. I'm giving up the one thing that really brings me joy. Eating. How do you cope with that? What do you do to fill that void? Wow. Now I'm sad.
      · 1 reply
      1. LeighaTR

        I hope your surgery on Wednesday goes well. You will be able to do all sorts of new things as you find your new normal after surgery. I don't know this from experience yet, but I am seeing a lot of positive things from people who have had it done. Best of luck!

    • Alisa_S

      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
      of something and I'm not sure what to do about it. For years the only thing I've enjoyed is eating. We rarely do anything or go anywhere and if we do it always includes food. Family comes over? Big family dinner! Go camping? Food! Take a short ride or trip? Food! Holiday? Food! Go out of town for a Dr appointment? Food! When we go to a new town we don't look for any attractions, we look for restaurants we haven't been to. Heck, I look forward to getting off work because that means it's almost supper time. Now that I'm drinking these pre-op shakes for breakfast, lunch, and supper I have nothing to look forward to.  And once I have surgery on June 11th it'll be more of the same shakes. Even after pureed stage, soft food stage, and finally regular food stage, it's going to be a drastic change for the rest of my life. I'm giving up the one thing that really brings me joy. Eating. How do you cope with that? What do you do to fill that void? Wow. Now I'm sad.
      · 1 reply
      1. summerseeker

        Life as a big person had limited my life to what I knew I could manage to do each day. That was eat. I hadn't anything else to look forward to. So my eating choices were the best I could dream up. I planned the cooking in managable lots in my head and filled my day with and around it.

        Now I have a whole new big, bigger, biggest, best days ever. I am out there with those skinny people doing stuff i could never have dreamt of. Food is now an after thought. It doesn't consume my day. I still enjoy the good home cooked food but I eat smaller portions. I leave food on my plate when I am full. I can no longer hear my mother's voice saying eat it all up, ther are starving children in Africa who would want that!

        I still cook for family feasts, I love cooking. I still do holidays but I have changed from the All inclusive drinking and eating everything everyday kind to Self catering accommodation. This gives me the choice of cooking or eating out as I choose. I rarely drink anymore as I usually travel alone now and I feel I need to keep aware of my surroundings.

        I don't know at what point my life expanded, was it when I lost 100 pounds? Was it when I left my walking stick at home ? Was it when I said yes to an outing instead of finding an excuse to stay home ? i look back at my last five years and wonder how loosing weight has made such a difference. Be ready to amaze yourself.

        BTW, the liquid diet sucks, one more day and you are over the worst. You can do it.

    • CaseyP1011

      Officially here for a long time, not just a good time💪
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
  • Recent Topics

  • Hot Products

  • Sign Up For
    Our Newsletter

    Follow us for the latest news
    and special product offers!
  • Together, we have lost...
      lbs

    PatchAid Vitamin Patches

    ×