Diverticulosis Causes and Treatment
Constipation appears to be a culprit for the condition. When you are constipated, it makes the muscles strain to move stool that is too hard. That strain is the main cause of increased pressure in the colon. This excess pressure might cause the weak spots in the colon to bulge out. Other risk factors include:
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Diet low in fiber content or high in fat
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High intake of meat and red meat
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Increasing age
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Constipation
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Connective tissue disorders that may cause weakness in the colon wall
Once diverticula have formed, there is no way to reverse the process. The pouches are there for the rest of your life. Some people find that eating nuts and seeds during an attack of diverticulitis can be irritating to the inflamed intestinal lining.
Seek medical attention if you have these symptoms:
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Persistent abdominal pain
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Persistent unexplained fevers
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Persistent diarrhea
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Persistent vomiting
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A urinary tract infection that won’t go away
Any time you have bleeding from your rectum, you should see your health care provider right away. This is true even if the bleeding stops on its own. Bleeding may be a sign of diverticulitis or other serious diseases. If there is a lot of blood or a steady flow of blood, go to a hospital emergency department immediately.
During diverticulitis attacks, many doctors suggest mild pain medication and bowel rest. Bowel rest usually involves two to three days of clear fluids (no food at all), so your colon may heal without having to work.
Once you have had diverticulitis, your odds are high it will return. To reduce the odds of diverticula becoming inflamed or infected, follow the same recommendations to prevent constipation.
For chronic constipation, try one of these variations of pudding power: In a blender, blend 1 cup crushed 100 percent bran flakes with 1½ cups of canned pears in their own juice. You can substitute the pears with 1 cup applesauce and ½ cup prune juice. To take the pudding, drink an 8-ounce glass of warm water, followed by a tablespoon of pudding power a day for the first week, two tablespoons a day for the second week, and so on, up to five tablespoons a day.
Eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of fluids, and exercise regularly. Aim for 38 grams of fiber per day for men and 25 grams per day for women.
