For C. diff survivors, it can be scary to visit a healthcare setting–especially if you’re worried about taking antibiotics. If you’ve struggled to talk about antibiotics with your doctor after C. diff, read below for some things to keep in mind before your next appointment.

How do I talk to my doctor about my history of C. diff?

As with any doctor appointment, it’s important to prepare for your visit. You can do so by writing down, on paper or on a mobile device, a detailed list that includes your medical history (conditions you have or suffered from in the past, surgeries you’ve had, etc.) and any medications, herbs, supplements, or vitamins you take.

My doctor wants me to take an antibiotic. What should I do?

Careful use of antibiotics is important for everyone, not just C. diff survivors. But a history of C. diff can make the prospect of taking antibiotics a scary proposition. That’s why it’s crucial to take antibiotics only when necessary.

How do we know when antibiotics are necessary? The first step is to ensure that the doctor is trying to treat or prevent a bacterial infection. Antibiotics do not treat fungal, viral, or parasitic infections. Ask your doctor to confirm you have a bacterial infection. If they’re unsure, ask about doing further testing or if there are other treatment options you can pursue.

Can I take an antibiotic for C. diff at the same time as a regular antibiotic?

In some cases, a doctor might be willing to prescribe a drug like vancomycin or fidaxomicin (brand name Dificid) alongside the antibiotic for whatever condition the patient is suffering from or procedure they have to have done.

There’s some evidence that this method might be effective. As always, it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor to come up with a plan that you’re both comfortable with.

For more information about antibiotics, when you might need them, and the kinds of things you should be discussing with your doctor, download our patient flyer below.