Clostridium difficile is a spore forming bacterium. It is present as one of the "normal" bacteria in the gut in up to 33% of healthy adults. If the balance of the "normal" gut bacteria gets altered, then it is possible for Clostridium difficile to flourish and cause an infection.
If the balance of the normal gut flora (bacteria) is altered, Clostridium difficile can flourish and produce a toxin that causes watery diarrhoea.
Symptoms can include:
The risk of being affected by Clostridium difficile infection is higher in people who: