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Diverticulum
Discover specialized diverticulum care at GastroDoxs in Houston with Dr. Scott. Whether you're experiencing intestinal pouches, bladder or throat diverticula, our team offers personalized diagnosis, effective treatments, and diet guidance. Trust our experience to relieve discomfort and improve digestive health.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Age - Risk increases after 40
Low-fiber diet - Makes stools harder to pass
Family history - Genes may play a role
Constipation - Straining weakens the bowel wall
Inflammation - Certain gut conditions can lead to pouches
Signs and Symptoms
Pain or cramping in the lower left belly
Bloating or gas
Diarrhea or constipation
Blood in the stool (rare)
Fever and tenderness if the pouch gets inflamed
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Diverticulum?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your epigastric pain patterns, meal triggers, prior diverticular issues and any associated symptoms like nausea or bloating.
Blood Tests
We check a complete blood count (CBC) and inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) to look for signs of diverticulitis or complications, plus liver and pancreatic enzymes if needed.
Imaging Studies
Contrast CT scan of the abdomen to identify duodenal or small-bowel diverticula, inflammation, abscesses or nearby organ involvement.
Abdominal ultrasound for a quick, noninvasive look at gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreatic head.
Upper GI barium series to outline outpouchings in the duodenum and proximal small intestine.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper endoscopy (EGD) allows direct visualization of the stomach and duodenum, confirmation of diverticula and biopsy if alternative causes are suspected.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Capsule endoscopy or deep enteroscopy to evaluate small-bowel diverticula when standard studies are inconclusive.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for diverticulum conditions.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Increase dietary fiber with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Stay well-hydrated to soften stools and ease passage
Maintain regular physical activity to support healthy digestion
2. Medications
Fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium or methylcellulose) to bulk and soften stools
Antibiotics if an infection or diverticulitis is present
Pain relief medications for mild discomfort
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic repair for Zenker's diverticulum to improve swallowing
Laparoscopic surgery for larger or symptomatic pouches
Abscess drainage under imaging guidance when needed
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a diverticulum in the duodenum?
Weak areas in the small intestine wall, often from pressure or inflammation, lead to pouch formation.
Can a bladder diverticulum hurt?
Yes. You may experience pelvic pressure, frequent urination, or blood in your urine.
When should I worry about Meckel's diverticulum?
Call your doctor if you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or any bleeding.
How do you treat Zenker's diverticulum?
Endoscopic surgery is performed to reduce swallowing difficulties and repair the pouch.
Will diet changes help?
Yes-especially in mild cases. Dr. Scott will tailor a high-fiber diet and lifestyle plan for you.
Are imaging tests safe?
Yes. CT scans, colonoscopy, and endoscopy are routine, low-risk procedures.
How long is recovery?
Most patients resume light activities within a few days. Your exact timeline will depend on your treatment.
