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Diverticulum Specialist - Dr. Rishi Chadha

It is sold at GastroDoxs, Houston, by Dr. Rishi Chadha, specialist, all-inclusive diagnostics and cure of divertical pouches. Altering diet and medications, non-invasive measures, Dr. Chadha offers the individualized treatment and allows the symptoms and eliminates the infections, not to mention the fact that he also relieves the state of the digestive system.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
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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 Is a Diverticulum?

Diverticulum This is a tiny opening that develops in the mucosa of your digestive tube or bladder. They may be found at one of the following points:

  • Small intestine diverticulum (Meckel’s diverticulum).
  • Diverticulum of the small bowel (upper small intestine).
  • Bladder diverticulum.
  • Zenker’s diverticulum (throat).

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Aging: weakening of tissues makes pouch formation more likely.
  • Low-fiber diet: increases pressure in the bowel, leading to pouch development.
  • Family history of bowel diseases.
  • Chronic constipation or frequent straining during bowel movements.
  • Increased pressure in the bowel or bladder.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Lower left abdominal pain or discomfort.
  • Bloating, gas, or abdominal cramping.
  • Diarrhea or constipation.
  • Blood in the stool or urine.
  • Fever, chills, or nausea during pouch infection.
  • Difficulty swallowing or coughing (seen in Zenker’s diverticulum).

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Diverticulum?

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He examines your symptoms (pain, bloating, bleeding), medical history, nutrition, bowel habits and examines your belly.

Blood and Urine Tests

We identify the level of white blood, the indications of inflammation and eliminate urinary infections.

Endoscopic Evaluation

An examination of a colon and diverticula directly is referred to as a colonoscopy or a sigmoidoscopy.

Imaging Studies

  • CT scan or MRI to determine complications like abscesses, perforation or inflammation.
  • To map duodenal and Zackers diverticulum either barium swallow or upper GI series.

Nuclear Medicine Scan

In the presence of suspicion of the existence of a suspected Meckel diverticulum, a pertechnetate scan may be performed on the patient with Technetium-99m and the scan will indicate the presence of ectopic gastric mucosa.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for diverticulum disorders.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for better digestion.
  • Drink plenty of water daily to maintain hydration and bowel regularity.
  • Engage in regular exercise to promote healthy bowel movements.
  • Avoid foods that may trigger discomfort, such as nuts or seeds, if they cause sensitivity.

2. Medications

  • Fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium) to soften stools and ease bowel movements.
  • Antibiotics prescribed in case of infection.
  • Painkillers taken only under medical supervision.
  • Antispasmodic medications to relieve intestinal cramping.

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Laparoscopic diverticulectomy — removal of the diverticulum through small incisions.
  • Endoscopic treatment of Zenker’s diverticulum without large surgical incisions.
  • Balloon dilation or stent placement for small bowel pouches at the upper end.
  • Transurethral resection of bladder diverticulum when necessary.
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 the diverticulum of Meckel?

It is a congenital extension of the small intestine present from birth. When irritated or infected, it can cause abdominal pain, bleeding, or inflammation.

How is a duodenal diverticulum identified?

It is typically diagnosed using imaging techniques such as a CT scan, upper endoscopy, or barium gastrointestinal series.

Is there pain with a bladder diverticulum?

Yes. A bladder diverticulum can cause pelvic pain, urinary tract infections, difficulty emptying the bladder, or blood in the urine.

What are the symptoms of Zenker’s diverticulum?

Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing, persistent coughing, regurgitation of undigested food, and the sensation of a lump in the throat.

How is Zenker’s diverticulum treated?

Endoscopic surgery is used to open or remove the pouch with minimal trauma, allowing for a quicker and smoother recovery.

Are all diverticulosis cases treated with surgery?

No. Most cases improve with dietary modifications, fiber supplements, and antibiotics if infection occurs. Surgery is reserved for complications or recurring symptoms.

How can I prevent flare-ups?

Eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, and avoid straining during bowel movements.

Does fiber help?

Yes. Fiber softens stool, reduces bowel and bladder pressure, and helps lower the risk of diverticulitis and inflammation.

How long is the recovery period?

After laparoscopic or endoscopic surgery, most patients can return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.

How can I book an appointment with Dr. Chadha?

Appointments with Dr. Rishi Chadha can be scheduled by calling our Houston office during business hours or booking online at GastroDoxs.com.

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