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Diverticulitis

At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified Dr. Rishi Chadha offers compassionate, cutting-edge care for diverticulitis. From prompt diagnosis to tailored treatment�from dietary guidance and comprehensive medications to minimally invasive surgery�our dedicated team ensures swift relief, improved colon health, and lasting wellness.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
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 Is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis happens when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall become inflamed or infected. During an attack, you may experience belly pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. With prompt treatment, most people recover quickly.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Age : More common after 40
  • Low-fiber diet : Hard stools raise colon pressure
  • Obesity or smoking : Increases your risk
  • Family history : Genetics can play a part
  • Chronic constipation : Straining can worsen pouches

Signs and Symptoms

  • Sharp pain in the lower left abdomen
  • Fever, chills, or malaise
  • Bloating, gas, or abdominal cramps
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Thin, lumpy stool or mucus in the stool

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Diverticulitis?

Step-by-Step Approach:

Medical History & Physical Exam

Dr. Chadha reviews your symptoms (pain location, fever, bowel changes), diet, lifestyle and performs a gentle abdominal exam to pinpoint tenderness or guarding.

Blood Tests

Complete blood count (CBC) and inflammatory markers (CRP) help detect infection or inflammation.

Imaging Studies

  • CT Scan : The gold standard to visualize diverticula, wall thickening, abscesses or complications.
  • Ultrasound : May be used in selected cases to identify localized inflammation or fluid collections.

Endoscopic Evaluation

Once acute inflammation has subsided, a colonoscopy is performed to rule out other causes (polyps, cancer) and assess overall colon health.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for diverticulitis.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Begin with clear liquids during active flare-ups
  • Gradually transition to a high-fiber diet including fruits, vegetables, beans, and oats
  • Ensure at least 8 glasses of water per day to maintain hydration
  • Avoid seeds or nuts only if they trigger symptoms

2. Medications

  • Antibiotics to treat and prevent infection
  • Acetaminophen for safe and effective pain relief
  • Probiotics to restore and maintain healthy gut bacteria

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Image-guided abscess drainage via a fine needle
  • Laparoscopic colon resection to remove affected segments with smaller incisions and faster recovery
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 is diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is the infection or inflammation of small pouches (diverticula) that form in the colon wall.

What causes it?

Low-fiber diets, aging (over 40), obesity, smoking, family history, and chronic constipation can increase your risk.

What does it feel like?

Sharp pain in the lower left abdomen, fever, chills, bloating, gas, and sometimes changes in bowel habits.

Can it go away?

Yes. Most cases improve with rest, antibiotics, and dietary changes, though some people may have recurrent episodes.

How can I ease pain fast?

Drink clear fluids, rest, apply a heating pad to your abdomen, and use acetaminophen for pain relief.

What does my stool look like?

It may be thin, lumpy, or contain mucus during a flare-up.

What is the ICD-10 code?

K57.20 is used for diverticulitis without perforation or abscess on medical records.

Should I change my diet?

Yes. Start with clear liquids during a flare, then gradually add high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.

When should I see a doctor?

If you experience high fever, severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, or significant changes in bowel habits.

Can surgery fix it?

For recurrent or complicated cases, surgical removal of the affected colon segment can prevent future flare-ups.

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