Why do I continue to have persistent diarrhea?

Question

Okay, so, this all started out with a tooth abscess, a really bad one over a month ago. When it all started, I started on some antibiotics that I had left over from a prior tooth infection. But then, was prescribed another antibiotic after having the tooth drilled to allow drainage of the infected tooth, I took one of those pills, but that same night I went to the emergency room and had intravenous antibiotics, which they told me to do at the dentist if my symptoms (swelling) got any worse.

Well, the doctor at the emergency room put clindamycin through me intravenously, and told me to get a prescription filled of ten days worth of clindamycin. After a couple days of the clindamycin I developed severe diarrhea, which I had for three weeks before finally going to see my doctor, because it was evident that the clindamycin killed all of the beneficial bacteria in my intestines and colon. So, he prescribed me metrNidazole, I guess that's right, to the bad bacteria (Clostridium difficile), and it seemed to have helped for a while, but tonight I have had severe diarrhea again, and now I'm left wondering what the problem is? I do not understand.

If it helps any, I'm also a sufferer of thyroid disease and take levothyroxine for my inactive thyroid. I also take anxiety medication, paroxetine, which really helps with my anxiety. The main thing, however, that I'm wondering about is my caffeine and nicotine intake. I drink soda brand name mountain dew, and I chew grizzly tobacco...?

John de Witt · Answer

C. difficile diarrhea is likely still the correct diagnosis, though it isn't a complete certainty. Metronidazole is effective to treat it more often than not, but that's hardly a ringing endorsement. Oral vancomycin is a bit better but still not perfect. The most effective treatment seems to be "stool transplant," either orally or rectally. It's a bit difficult to process, though, and people for some reason (!?) are put off by the idea of their doctor telling them to eat sh*t.

Gert · Answer

Wow, you're a mess.  Antibiotics are famous for causing diarrhea.

? · Answer

Despite the narrow spectrum antibiotics, perhaps the flora in your gut has been disturbed.  To curb the diarrhea, use liberal doses of an opioid.

ChemoAngel · Answer

Your next step should be to see a gastoenterlogist. It's obvious that so many antibiotics have destroyed your intestines....he will be able to help you.

☯≈♥∞☼ · Answer

antibiotics dont discriminate; they will kill bad and good bacteria. you likely killed all the good bacteria in your gut(biome). you should start taking probiotic supplements  and eating as much fermented foods as you can; easiest one is yogurt. once you get off the antibiotics and start repopulating your gut with good bacteria your GI issues should go away and you'll return to normal function.

Plogsties · Answer

If it is C. Diff and the treatment doesn't work you may want to consult a gastroenterologist.

jason w · Answer

A bug

Sharon S · Answer

I am sure a side effect of the medication which is normal.

Trending News

Why do I continue to have persistent diarrhea?

8 Answers