Pseudomembranous colitis
Alternate Names : Antibiotic-associated colitis, Colitis - pseudomembranous, Necrotizing colitis
Treatment
The antibiotic or other medicine causing the condition should be stopped. Metronidazole is usually used to treat the disorder, but vancomycin or rifaximin may also be used. Electrolyte solutions or fluids given through a vein may be needed to treat dehydration due to diarrhea. In rare cases, surgery is needed to treat infections that get worse or do not respond to antibiotics.
Prognosis (Expectations)
If there are no complications, the outlook is generally good. However, up to 20% of infections may return, requiring additional treatment.
Complications
- Dehydration with electrolyte imbalance
- Perforation of (hole through) the colon
- Toxic megacolon
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if the following symptoms occur: - Bloody stools after taking antibiotics
- Five or more episodes of diarrhea per day for more than 1-2 days
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration (dry skin, dry mouth, glassy appearance of the eyes, sunken soft spots on top of head in infants, rapid pulse, confusion, excessive tiredness)
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