Everything You Need to Know About Diverticulitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
If you’re over 40 and experience abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, or bloating, it might be diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is an inflammation of small pouches in the lining of the digestive tract that are called diverticula. These pouches, commonly referred to as diverticula, are usually harmless. However, if they become inflamed or infected, they can cause complications.
In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about diverticulitis, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment.
What Causes Diverticulitis?
The pouches that cause diverticulitis form when weak spots in the intestinal walls bulge outward. The exact cause of diverticula formation is unclear, but a low-fiber diet is known to contribute to the problem.
When you don’t eat enough fiber, your bowel movement becomes slower, and more pressure is needed to move stool through your intestines. Straining can weaken the walls of the colon and cause tiny pouches to form. Inflammation or infection of these pouches is what results in diverticulitis. Other factors that may increase the risk of diverticulitis include aging, obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise.
What Are the Symptoms of Diverticulitis?
The symptoms of diverticulitis may vary from person to person. However, some common symptoms may include abdominal pain, especially in the lower left part, fever, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. Symptoms of diverticulitis can be severe and require prompt medical attention.
How Is Diverticulitis Diagnosed?
If you experience any of the symptoms discussed above, see a qualified healthcare provider immediately. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order further diagnostic tests, such as a blood test, stool test, or imaging tests such as a CT scan, ultrasound, or X-ray.
What Is the Treatment for Diverticulitis?
The treatment for diverticulitis may vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, your doctor may recommend a clear liquid diet, antibiotics to help clear up the infection, and plenty of rest.
In cases when diverticulitis is severe or recurrent, your doctor may recommend hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, a liquid diet, and in some cases, surgery.
How Can Diverticulitis Be Prevented?
Eating a high-fiber diet can help prevent diverticulitis. Fiber helps to increase the bulk and soften stool, preventing constipation and straining. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Drinking plenty of water and exercise regularly are also essential for digestive health.
Conclusion
Diverticulitis can be a painful and serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly can help to prevent the formation of pouches in the colon and reduce the risk of diverticulitis. If you experience any symptoms of diverticulitis or have concerns about your digestive health, seek medical advice immediately.
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