What is a common side effect that may require monitoring in patients receiving cephalosporins?

Gastrointestinal disturbances are indeed a common side effect of cephalosporins that necessitate careful monitoring. This occurs because cephalosporins, like many antibiotics, can alter the normal flora of the gut, leading to issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. These disturbances arise from the antibiotic's action, which can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially resulting in conditions like antibiotic-associated diarrhea or, in severe cases, pseudomembranous colitis caused by Clostridium difficile overgrowth.

The monitoring of gastrointestinal symptoms is crucial, as these side effects can impact the patient's overall well-being and adherence to the treatment regimen. If not addressed, persistent gastrointestinal issues may lead to dehydration or malnutrition, complicating the patient's clinical status.

The other options, while they can occur in specific circumstances, are less common as direct effects of cephalosporin use. Dyspnea may arise in allergic reactions but is not a frequent side effect. Seizures are typically associated with high doses or renal impairment in some beta-lactams but are not common for all cephalosporins. Sweating is not a recognized side effect associated with cephalosporins specifically. Thus, gastrointestinal disturbances stand