Antibiotic-Induced Colitis: Secondary Complication of Antibiotic Usage

Symptoms and Treatment

As the cold and flu season approaches, many adults and children are expected to require antibiotic therapy to resolve bacterial infections. For most individuals, the use of antibiotics is simple and uncomplicated.  For others, the use of antibiotics may pose serious health complications.

One such antibiotic complication that is becoming increasingly more common among adults and children is the growing risk for developing antibiotic-induced colitis. While we generally assume there are some gastrointestinal side effects to be expected with antibiotic use, individuals who suffer from antibiotic-induced colitis suffer far greater complications.

Antibiotic-induced colitis is a complication that involves inflammation of the intestines. While we all carry some degree of healthy bacteria in the intestinal walls, the use of antibiotics may pose a health risk by destroying healthy bacteria. When healthy bacteria are destroyed, the symptoms of colitis begin as the growth and destruction of bacteria create a toxic release. This toxic release contributes to intestinal inflammation.

Without proper treatment, the complications associated with antibiotic-induced colitis may lead to permanent colitis complications. The delayed treatment results in the colon's permanent deterioration and production of pseudomembranes that are then released in the stool.

If your doctor has prescribed an antibiotic for your infection, it is important to ask about the complication potential for colitis. Generally, you will know that you are suffering from antibiotic-induced colitis when persistent diarrhea sets in about four days after initiating the antibiotic therapy.

To treat persistent diarrhea when taking antibiotics, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and try to consume regular services of lactobacillus acidophilus, the healthy bacteria found in yogurt cultures. Should diarrhea continue, consult your physician about supplementing your antibiotic with an additional medication that can treat the bacterial imbalance associated with the development of colitis.