|
Diet for Person with Diverticulitis
The large intestine, or colon, can develop small finger-like projections that protrude from the colon wall. These are referred to as diverticula. Diverticula are most common in patients over age 50. Material inside the colon, or feces, can become trapped inside the diverticula. This situation can lead to inflammation and irritation of the diverticulum that is referred to as diverticulitis. Many of the elderly will have diverticula in their colon, but only a few will be bothered with diverticulitis. Most physicians agree, a diet LOW in fiber is a contributing factor in the development of diverticulitis. Common symptoms of diverticulitis include left lower quadrant abdominal pain (the opposite side from the appendix), nausea, vomiting, and fever. Patients with diverticulitis experience constipation, or even pass bright red blood in their bowel movements. Evaluation will include history (for previous diverticular disease) and physical examination. Many times, the diagnosis can be made by the finding of left lower quadrant abdominal tenderness to palpation and fever. Blood tests, including the complete blood count, will show elevation of the white blood cells that is seen with most infectious or inflammatory conditions. X-rays of the abdomen can help rule out intestinal obstruction or perforation of the intestine, both of which can be easily determined by their characteristic appearance on the abdominal x-rays. Treatment of mild cases can be accomplished with a clear liquid diet and antibiotics. More serious cases involving rectal bleeding, high fever, and vomiting will require IV fluid, hospitalization, and antibiotics. A small percentage of these patients require surgery to correct this problem. The General Surgeon or the Gastroenterologist are experts in the management of this patient.
REMEMBER
Increasing your dietary fiber can reduce the occurrence of diverticulitis, and may also have a role in reducing your risk of colon cancer.
|
