Can extreme stress cause c diff to flare up again? i've been c diff free for a year and cancer free for a year but am still under stress and worry.

No: Stress doesn't cause C diff or cancer to return. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, don't smoke and take all medicines as prescribed. Consult a counselor to help you process your feelings and emotions. Thanks for trusting HealthTap!

No...but: if your diet changes where it can affect the profile of bacteria that's in your gut, or your severe stress is prolonged causing a dysfunctional immune system, it is conceivable that there maybe an increase the risk of getting C diff associated diarrhea again if some spores remain in you and they germinate, or if you get exposed to C diff again. Remember to wash your hands well please!

Usually no: Usually Stress does NOT cause a C-Diff infection.

Unlikely: stress doesn't change the microbial flora that much. On the other hand, it certainly can cause a change in bowel motility (irritable bowel syndrome).