Diverticulitis is the infection or inflammation of pouches that can form in your intestines. These pouches are called diverticula. The pouches generally aren’t harmful. They can show up anywhere in your intestines. If you have them, it's called diverticulosis. If they become infected or inflamed, you have diverticulitis

Symptoms

• Severe abdominal pain and cramping that is usually worse on the left side and increases when the area is touched
• Nausea
• Chills or fever
• Bloating
• Constipation, thin stools, or diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding

Treatment

 If Diverticulitis are developed in your body it’s better to consult a doctor to avoid possible life-threatening complications. Diverticulitis is treated using diet modifications, antibiotics and surgery if required. Mild diverticulitis infection may be treated with stool softeners, a liquid diet, antibiotics and bed rest.

Prevention of Diverticulitis

• Eat more fiber by adding whole-grain breads, oatmeal, bran cereals, fibrous fresh fruits, and vegetables to your diet. However, take care to add fiber gradually. A sudden switch to a high-fiber diet can cause bloating and gas.
• Avoid refined foods, such as white flour, white rice, and other processed foods.
• Exercise regularly. Exercise can help the muscles in your intestine retain their tone, which encourages regular bowel movements. If you have the urge to move your bowels, don't delay or ignore it.
• Drink plenty of fluids (at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day) if you increase your intake of fiber.

Media Contact:

Jessica Rose
Journal Manager
Pain Management and Therapy
Email: pain@journaloa.org