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.
Diverticulitis is a disorder that arises as a result of inflammatory tissues of colon wall taking the form of small bubbles (diverticula). When attacked, you might either have belly ache, fever and bowel disturbance. Most of the patients get healed with early intervention.
To tell whether you are tender or guarded, Dr. Chadha examines your symptoms (where the pain, fever-bowel changes), diet, lifestyle, and then provides the tender abdominal examination.
Infection or inflammation are detected by the use of CBC and inflammatory markers (CRP).
A colonoscopy is undertaken in case of acute inflammation which is already deceased to rule out other factors (polyps, cancer) and determine the health condition of the colon in general.
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.
Diverticulitis is a condition in which small pouches (diverticula) that form in the wall of the colon become inflamed or infected, causing pain and digestive issues.
Common causes and risk factors include a low-fiber diet, aging (over 40 years), obesity, smoking, family history of diverticular disease, and chronic constipation.
Diverticulitis often causes pain in the lower left abdomen, along with fever, chills, bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements.
Yes. Most cases improve with rest, antibiotics, and dietary changes, though some individuals may experience occasional recurrences.
Drink clear fluids, get plenty of rest, apply a heating pad to the abdomen, and take acetaminophen for pain relief.
Stools may vary in consistency — they can be thin, thick, or contain mucus during flare-ups.
The ICD-10 code for diverticulitis without perforation or abscess is K57.20.
Yes. Start with clear liquids during flare-ups, then gradually increase intake of high-fiber foods such as vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains to promote healing and prevention.
Seek medical attention if you experience high fever, severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea or vomiting, or major changes in bowel habits.
Yes. In recurrent or complicated cases, surgery to remove the affected portion of the colon may be performed to prevent future flare-ups.
