Diverticulitis / Diverticulosis Treatment in Indore

Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis - Description

Diverticulosis is a condition where small pouches, called diverticula, form in the lining of the colon, mostly in the large intestine. Generally, these pouches result from weak spots in the colon wall, which can be brought about by low-fibre diets, ageing, and pressure within the colon. The majority of individuals with diverticulosis have no symptoms.

Diverticulitis arises when such pouches become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and digestive symptoms. It is essentially a complication of diverticulosis.

Symptoms of diverticulitis include:

Abdominal pain, usually left lower quadrant

Fever and chills

Nausea and vomiting

Constipation or diarrhoea

Possible rectal bleeding

Possible complications of diverticulitis include abscesses, perforation, peritonitis, fistulas, or intestinal obstruction. Thus, early diagnosis is important.

Types

1. Diverticulosis

Asymptomatic: The majority are asymptomatic; found incidentally during colonoscopy or imaging.

Symptomatic uncomplicated: Mild symptoms, including bloating, cramping, or irregular bowel habits.

2. Diverticulitis

Uncomplicated diverticulitis-inflammation confined to the diverticula without complications.

Complicated diverticulitis includes abscess, perforation, fistula formation, obstruction, or severe bleeding.

Treatment

1. Diverticulosis

Focus on prevention and symptom management.

High-fibre diet: fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to decrease colon pressure.

Hydration: Adequate fluid intake to prevent constipation.

Regular exercise to improve bowel motility.

2. Diverticulitis

Mild (Uncomplicated) Cases:

Rest the bowel (temporary low-fibre diet)

Oral antibiotics for the infection

Pain management

Severe or Complicated Cases:

Hospitalisation with IV fluids and antibiotics

Surgery may be required for abscess drainage, perforation, repair of fistulae, or bowel resection.

Post-Recovery:

Gradual return to a high-fibre diet to avoid recurrence

Manage risk factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking.

Prevention

1. High-Fibre Diet

Prevents constipation and reduces pressure in the colon.

Include fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

2. Hydration

Drink enough water to keep your stools soft.

3. Regular Physical Activity

Exercise enhances bowel motility and decreases the risk of the formation of diverticula.

4. Healthy Lifestyle

Maintain a healthy body weight

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

5. Bowel Habits

Avoid straining with bowel movements

Treat constipation promptly 6. Medical Management: Periodic colonoscopy in individuals with risk factors or a history of diverticulitis. Manage comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension