Alternative Treatments For Diverticulitis

Diverticula are small pockets in the lining of the intestines that jut out through the muscle of the intestinal wall. These pouches cause no pain or any other symptoms unless they become inflamed or infected. When a diverticular pouch and the surrounding tissue become inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is caused when undigested food or fecal matter sticks in the pocket, and causes irritation. This compromises blood flow to the area and in turn makes the area susceptible to intrusion by bacteria. This hinders the bowels capability to get rid of waste which in turn leads to constipation, diarrhea, and cramping.

Fields of study have shown that diverticulitis may be inherited, but it is more common in the aged, whose intestinal lining begins to weaken. Researchers have also discovered that diet plays an all important role as folks who eat a low fiber diet have an increased chance of acquiring the condition. Fiber is the key to controlling this disorder. During an attack of diverticulitis, a health care provider may suggest a low fiber diet until the condition is in check. Water is also important and drinking a minimum of eight 8 ounce glasses of quality water daily is advised. Fresh juices, tea, and broth are also beneficial. Liquids helps to arrest toxic waste buildup, which causes inflammation.

Once suspected, the diagnosing of diverticular disease may be confirmed by various tests. Barium X-rays may be performed to view the colon. Diverticula appear as barium filled pockets projecting from the colon wall. Direct visualization of the intestine can be accomplished with pliable tubes inserted through the rectum and advanced into the colon. Either short tubes, called sigmoidoscopes, or longer tubes, called colonoscopes, could be used to aid in the diagnosing and to exclude other diseases that may mimic diverticular disease. In patients suspected of having diverticular abscesses causing relentless pain and fever, ultrasound and CT scan exams of the abdomen and pelvis may be done to detect accumulations of pus fluid.

Lots of patients with diverticulosis have minimal or no symptoms and don't require any special treatment. A high fiber diet and fiber supplements are recommended to prevent constipation and the formation of further diverticula. Patients with modest symptoms of bloating or abdominal pain might benefit from anti-spasmodic drugs. Some physicians also suggest avoidance of corn, nuts, and seeds to avoid complications of diverticulosis. It remains unsure as to whether these diet limitations are advantageous or not.

Diverticulitis that doesn't react to either medical or alternative treatment calls for surgical intervention. Surgery generally involves drainage of any accumulations of pus and resection of that section of the colon containing the diverticuli, generally the sigmoid colon. Surgical removal of the bleeding diverticula is required for those who have continual bleeding. In patients requiring surgery to arrest persistent bleeding, precise localization becomes critical to lead the surgeon. Diverticula may In some cases erode into the neighboring bladder, causing numerous repeated urine infections and passing of gas while urinating. This is another situation which could require surgery.

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