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Diverticula

Diverticula are small pouches that develop in the colon wall, often without symptoms until infection strikes. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers diagnosis and personalized treatment-from diet modifications to advanced procedures-ensuring expert care for diverticulosis and diverticulitis management.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. 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.

What Are Diverticula?

Diverticula are small, bulging pouches that develop in the lining of the colon. When multiple pouches form, the condition is called diverticulosis. If one or more pouches become inflamed or infected, it's known as diverticulitis.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Low-fiber diet
  • Age-related weakening of the colon wall
  • Chronic constipation (increased colon pressure)
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Obesity or overweight
  • Smoking
  • Frequent alcohol use
  • Family history of diverticular disease

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often none in early or mild diverticulosis
  • Mild cramps or pain, usually in the lower left abdomen
  • Bloating and gas
  • Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
  • Fever and chills (with diverticulitis)
  • Increased tenderness in the abdomen
  • Blood in the stool (if a pouch bleeds)

Expert Treatment for Diverticula by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your symptoms-such as lower abdominal or epigastric pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits-and assesses risk factors like diet, age, and family history.

Blood Tests

We check for signs of inflammation or infection, including white blood cell count and C-reactive protein (CRP).

Imaging Studies

  • CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis identifies inflamed or infected diverticula, abscesses, and bowel wall thickening.
  • Abdominal ultrasound can detect localized inflammation or fluid collections.

Endoscopic Evaluation

A colonoscopy provides direct visualization of diverticula and rules out other causes of symptoms.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In recurrent or complicated cases, Dr. Pothuri may order an MRI enterography or specialized endoscopic studies to guide further treatment.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for diverticular disease.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

  • Personalized high-fiber meal plans featuring fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Hydration goals of 6-8 glasses of water daily to keep digestion smooth
  • Customized exercise programs to support regular bowel movements
  • Guidance on avoiding foods that may trigger symptoms

2. Medications

  • Fiber supplements to soften stools and reduce colon pressure
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen for discomfort
  • Targeted antibiotics to treat or prevent diverticular infection

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic interventions to locate and control bleeding
  • Laparoscopic surgery to remove affected segments of the colon when needed
  • State-of-the-art post-procedure monitoring and recovery support
1.7K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.7K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are diverticula?

Diverticula are small pouches that form in weak spots of the colon wall, known as diverticulosis when present without inflammation.

Is diverticulosis serious?

Most people have no symptoms and live normally. However, if a pouch becomes infected or inflamed (diverticulitis), it can cause pain, fever, and complications.

Can diet help manage it?

Yes. A high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with adequate fluids, lowers colon pressure and reduces the risk of flare-ups.

What treatments are available?

Treatment ranges from fiber supplements and over-the-counter pain relief to antibiotics for infection. In recurrent or severe cases, endoscopic procedures or surgery may be needed.

Can I prevent diverticula?

Adopting a balanced diet, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can help prevent the formation and complications of diverticula.

Do I need a colonoscopy?

Yes. A colonoscopy allows Dr. Pothuri to visualize pouches, assess their extent, and rule out other conditions.

How soon will I feel better?

Mild cases often improve within a few days with diet and medication. More severe infections may take longer and require follow-up care.

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