Diverticulitis FAQ
What causes diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula (pouches) in the colon wall become inflamed or infected, often due to bacteria.
What are common diverticulitis symptoms?
Common symptoms include severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel movements.
How is diverticulitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves physical exams, medical history, and tests like CT scans or stool tests to confirm infection.
Is diverticulitis treatable?
Yes, diverticulitis is typically treated with antibiotics, rest, and dietary changes to manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Can diverticulitis be prevented?
A high-fiber diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce the risk of developing diverticula.
Who is at risk for diverticulitis?
Risk increases with age, particularly over 40. Family history and low-fiber diets also contribute to risk.
What happens if diverticulitis is left untreated?
Untreated diverticulitis can lead to complications like abscesses, perforations, or peritonitis, requiring surgical intervention.
What medications treat diverticulitis?
Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and metronidazole are commonly prescribed to clear the infection.
Is surgery necessary for diverticulitis?
Surgery may be required for severe or recurring cases to remove the affected colon section.
How long does diverticulitis recovery take?
Recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks with proper treatment, but varies depending on severity and overall health.
Can diverticulitis recur after treatment?
Yes, recurrence is possible if underlying factors like diet or gut health are not adequately managed.
What dietary changes help manage diverticulitis?
A post-infection diet should transition from clear liquids to low-fiber foods initially, then gradually increase fiber intake.
Does stress cause diverticulitis?
Stress doesn't directly cause diverticulitis but may exacerbate symptoms. Managing stress supports overall digestive health.
Can diverticulitis lead to colon cancer?
No direct link exists between diverticulitis and colon cancer, but both conditions affect the colon, emphasizing the importance of screenings.
How is diverticulitis different from diverticulosis?
Diverticulosis refers to the presence of diverticula without inflammation or infection, unlike diverticulitis, which involves active infection.
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