Welcome to Gastrodoxs! If you're in Houston and looking for easy, clear advice about colon health, you're in the right place. Dr. Bharat Pothuri explains diverticulitis in plain terms. This guide covers what it is, how it differs from diverticulosis, warning signs, common triggers, diet tips, home care, and ways to prevent problems. We’ve also included a quick chart, Houston-specific advice, and FAQs.
Diverticulitis happens when small pouches in your colon wall-called diverticula-get inflamed or infected. It usually causes pain on the lower left side of your belly.
“In Houston, most patients get better with rest, fluids, and a soft diet,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Surgery is rare.”
Early care at a Houston clinic can help you feel better faster and avoid complications.
These two sound similar but aren’t the same.
Diverticulosis means you have pouches in your colon, but no symptoms.
Diverticulitis is when those pouches become inflamed or infected.
“Think of diverticulosis as quiet,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Diverticulitis is when it speaks up—with pain.”
If you're in Houston and notice these, call your GI doctor. Acting early helps recovery.
“In Houston’s heat, staying hydrated is essential,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Too little water can lead to trouble.”
“Houston food can be spicy,” says Dr. Pothuri. “During healing, choose mild meals that are easy to digest.”
You can manage some pain at home:
| Feature | Diverticulosis | Diverticulitis |
| What it is | Pouches in the colon, no symptoms | Infected or inflamed pouches |
| Symptoms | Usually none | Belly pain, fever, nausea |
| Diagnosis | Found during colonoscopy | CT scan, blood tests |
| Treatment | Fiber-rich diet, healthy habits | Antibiotics, clear diet, maybe surgery |
| Prevention | Fiber, water, exercise | Same + early care |
Diverticulitis is manageable. With the right habits, most people feel better and prevent future flare-ups. If you're in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri and the team at Gastrodoxs are here to help. Eat well, stay hydrated, and take care of your gut!
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
It’s an infection in colon pouches. Most cases are treated with antibiotics, rest, and a gentle diet. Severe cases may need surgery.
Lower left belly pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bathroom habits.
Low fiber, not drinking water, little movement, smoking, or certain meds.
Abscesses, blockages, fistulas, or serious infections like peritonitis.
During a flare: clear liquids and low-fiber meals. After recovery: fruits, veggies, and whole grains.
Diverticulosis means pouches with no symptoms. Diverticulitis means they’re infected or inflamed.
Try heat, acetaminophen, rest, water, and follow your diet plan.
Visit a Gastrodoxs clinic or local hospital. Don’t delay treatment.
Yes! The Mayo Clinic and NIH offer reliable info.
Go if you have severe belly pain, high fever, nonstop vomiting, or signs of infection.
