Diarrhea Caused by Antibiotics

Alternate Names : Antibiotic-Associated Colitis

What can be done to prevent the condition?

The best prevention is to avoid antibiotics that are not needed. Proper hand washing when caring for the sick may help prevent cases due to infection.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Most people recover without any long-term effects. Diarrhea that lasts a long time can lead to salt imbalances and dehydration. Rarely, a hole forms in the bowel, or the bowel becomes enlarged. This can lead to severe infection and even death.

What are the risks to others?

There are usually no risks to others. If infection is causing the diarrhea, it could be passed to others.