Diverticular Disease

What is diverticulitis?

Diverticular disease is more properly known as diverticulitis. It is a disease that involves the swelling of one or more diverticula (hollow or fluid-filled pouches), which can form in the digestive track. Although diverticula can form in the stomach, they are more commonly found in the large intestine.

The forming of diverticula is known as diverticulosis and does not have to lead to diverticulitis, but can very easily do so. Symptoms of diverticulitis include such things as abdominal pain, fever, nausea and a marked change in bowel movements.

Treatment of Diverticulitis

The treatment of diverticulitis will depend on the severity of the case as well as the overall physical health of the sufferer. Cases that are mild can be treated through such things as a change in diet, rest and the use of antibiotics.

In some of the more severe cases, the person may experience perforation, abscess, fistula or recurring diverticulitis. Treatment in these cases may include removing the diseased part of the digestive tract. However, this is an extreme measure reserved for only the most extreme cases, as there are several potential risk factors associated with the procedure.

Prevention of Diverticulitis

The diverticulitis diet most often recommended by doctors starts out with a liquid diet for at least a few days. This should allow the patient some relief right away. Within three days, the individual should be able to move into eating eating more high-fiber foods. Once they have recovered from the swelling, it is important to resume a preventive diet. This preventive diet is known as a diverticulosis diet and includes foods that are high in fiber such as fruits, whole grains and vegetables.

Leading a healthy and active lifestyle will help to promote regular bowel functions. Drinking plenty of fluids is also very important in order to promote proper digestion of foods. People with diverticula can also avoid diverticulitis by not ignoring the urge to have bowel movements.