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Diverticula

Diverticula are tiny colon pouches often unnoticed until they inflame. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Rishi Chadha applies his 15 years of experience to deliver compassionate expert diagnosis, tailored and effective treatments, and practical lifestyle advice for optimal digestive health.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Are Diverticula?

  • Small pouches that form in the colon wall
  • Develop when weak spots in the colon push outward
  • Often symptomless (called diverticulosis)
  • Different from diverticulitis, where pouches become inflamed or infected

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Low-fiber diet, which raises pressure in the colon
  • Age over 40
  • Family history of diverticular disease
  • Obesity and lack of regular physical activity
  • Use of certain medications (NSAIDs or steroids)

Common Symptoms

  • Often no symptoms in early stages
  • Abdominal cramps or bloating
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Occasional blood in the stool
  • Seek medical attention for severe pain, fever, or heavy bleeding

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Diverticula?

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your symptoms, diet, bowel habits and family history, then performs a focused abdominal exam.

Imaging Studies

  • CT scan pinpoints diverticula, inflammation, abscesses or other complications.
  • Colonoscopy allows direct visualization of the colon lining and pouches.

Lab Tests

Blood work checks for signs of infection (white count, CRP) and anemia. Stool tests rule out bleeding or infection.

Advanced Evaluation (if needed)

In rare cases, further imaging or endoscopic ultrasound is used to assess severity before planning treatment.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for diverticular disease.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • High-fiber meal plans featuring fruits, vegetables and whole grains
  • Hydration guidance to keep stools soft and easy to pass
  • Daily activity recommendations to support healthy bowel function
  • Coaching on responding promptly to the urge to have a bowel movement

2. Medications

  • Fiber supplements and powders to bulk and soften stool
  • Acetaminophen for safe, effective pain relief
  • Antibiotics when there is evidence of inflammation or infection

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Colonoscopy for direct visualization, diagnosis and targeted treatment
  • Laparoscopic surgery for severe, recurring or complicated diverticulitis
  • Elective colon resection to remove the affected segment if conservative measures fail
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between diverticula and diverticulitis?

Diverticula are small, harmless pouches that form in your colon wall. Diverticulitis means one or more of those pouches have become inflamed or infected.

Can I have diverticula without pain?

Yes. Most people with diverticula (diverticulosis) never experience any symptoms or discomfort.

How common is this?

Diverticulosis affects about half of adults over 60. The risk rises with age but can occur earlier, especially with a low-fiber diet.

Do I need surgery?

Not usually. Surgery is reserved for patients with repeated complications, severe attacks, or abscesses that don't respond to other treatments.

Can fiber make it worse?

You may feel more bloating at first. Start fiber slowly, drink plenty of water, and gradually increase your intake to help soften stools.

How do I prep for a colonoscopy?

You'll be asked to follow a clear-liquid diet the day before and take a prescribed bowel-cleaning solution to empty your colon.

Can I avoid surgery with mild diverticulitis?

Yes. Most mild cases improve with rest, a clear-liquid diet, antibiotics (if needed), and close follow-up with your doctor.

When should I call Dr. Chadha?

Contact us right away if you develop severe abdominal pain, fever, or notice blood in your stool these can signal infection or bleeding.

Can diverticula turn into cancer?

No. Having diverticula does not increase your risk of colon cancer. However, a colonoscopy also screens for polyps and malignancies.

How do I stop new pouches from forming?

Eat a high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), stay physically active, stay hydrated, and don't ignore your body's natural urge to have a bowel movement.

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