Diverticulitis

What Is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the wall of your colon become inflamed or infected. Unlike diverticular disease-where these pouches are present but cause no symptoms-diverticulitis brings pain, swelling, and sometimes infection that require prompt care.

Common Symptoms

Signs of diverticulitis can vary in severity, but often include:

• Lower abdominal pain or tenderness
• Fever or chills
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Nausea or loss of appetite
• Blood in your stool
• Pain that radiates into your back or side

Causes

Diverticulitis develops when bacteria become trapped in a diverticulum, triggering inflammation or infection. Common risk factors include:

• A low-fiber diet
• Physical inactivity
• Advancing age
• Smoking or excessive alcohol use
• Use of certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, steroids)

Treatment Options for Diverticulitis in Cypress

Treatment includes dietary management and medical care:

• Clear liquid or low-fiber diet: Start with broth, gelatin, and clear juices, then transition to a low-fiber plan-using our custom diet sheet to guide you.
• Oral antibiotics: Prescribed to clear the infection and reduce inflammation.
• Pain relief: Gentle analgesics such as acetaminophen; avoid stimulant laxatives unless directed by your doctor.
• IV fluids and antibiotics: For moderate to severe flare-ups, to maintain hydration and deliver stronger antibiotics.
• Colon rest: Short-term NPO (nothing by mouth) status may be recommended in the hospital to allow healing.
• Surgery: Reserved for complications like abscess, perforation, or repeated episodes-procedures may include laparoscopic resection or drainage.