Effective Diverticulosis Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Diverticulosis

Most doctors overlook cases of diverticulosis. The condition is usually diagnosed while screening for other conditions, such as an X-ray or a colonoscopy that may show the pouches.

The following tests are done to diagnose the condition:

• Medical History: The doctor will enquire about your diet, medicines taken in the past and present, general health, and frequency of bowel movements.
• Physical Exam: A physical exam will also be conducted. It usually includes a digital rectal exam with a lubricated, gloved finger. The doctor will gently check the anus for pain, bleeding, or other signs.

Other Tests:

• CT Scan: A CT scan creates images of the digestive tract for the doctor to examine.
• Colonoscopy: It allows the doctor to take a detailed look into the rectum and colon.
• Blood Sample: A blood sample is taken to confirm potential signs such as anemia or inflammation.
• Lower GI Series: A lower GI series uses X-rays to get a detailed look at the large intestine.

Treatment for Diverticulosis

The treatment plan for Diverticulosis aims at preventing pockets from causing problems. The doctor may prescribe the following treatments procedures:

• High-fiber Diet and Fiber Supplements: The doctor will decide the amount of fiber needed for your condition. Adding fiber-rich foods to the diet will reduce gas and pain in the stomach. Supplements such as Citrucel or Metamucil may also be recommended. These are available in pills, powder, or wafer forms.
• Medications: Doctors will prescribe medicines that help ease symptoms. Mesalazine is a commonly prescribed medication.
• Probiotics: The research on the benefits of probiotics is still being done. Live bacteria living in the stomach and intestines will help fight diverticulosis symptoms. The best sources include yogurt and supplements.
• Nuts and Seeds: These are also good sources of fiber. Nuts and seeds will help people with diverticulosis.

Prevention from Diverticulosis

Prevention of Diverticulosis is possible with regular bowel movements and avoiding constipation and straining.

Here are some tips to prevent Diverticulosis:

• Eat more Fiber: Fiber helps pull more water into the stool. This helps with bulkier, softer, and easier to move. Adding fiber will help you move more quickly through your colon.
• Water: Doctors recommend drinking plenty of water. Since adding more fiber absorbs more water from the body, you need to increase the amount of water intake in your diet to keep stool soft and move through quickly.
• Workout Daily: Staying active is necessary to help food pass through the intestinal system. Exercise for at least 30 minutes 5 days a week.

Recovery from Diverticulosis

Since diverticulosis is often asymptomatic, there is no distinct recovery period. If complications arise, such as diverticulitis, recovery duration varies based on severity and chosen treatment.

Living with Diverticulosis

Life with Diverticulosis may not be easy, especially with constant, unexplained pain in your abdomen. Fever and changes in bowel habits (mainly newly developed constipation or diarrhea) will make things challenging.
It is vital to keep up with the appointments with medical practitioners. In case symptoms return or get worse, call for emergency medical services. Do not ignore symptoms such as bright red or maroon colors in your stool or see blood in the toilet.
If you cannot get ample fiber from your diet, take a fiber supplement. Including 8 ounces of healthy fluids in your diet is essential.

• Symptoms and Causes