Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
Only watery stool is tested.
Why it's done
- Three or more watery stools a day during or after antibiotics or a hospital stay
Getting ready and what happens
- Don't take anti-diarrhea medicine before testing.
How the test is done
- You collect a liquid stool sample.
What the results mean
Positive
Treated with specific antibiotics, like oral vancomycin or fidaxomicin. Wash hands with soap and water; hand sanitizer doesn't kill C. diff spores.
When a result needs quick action
Call 911Severe belly pain or swelling, fever, or fainting with diarrhea
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.