Diverticular Disease 

Management of Diverticular Disease and Its Complications

Comprehensive Care for Digestive Health

What is Diverticular Disease?

Diverticular disease refers to conditions that arise from the presence of small, bulging pouches (diverticula) in the lining of the colon. While diverticula themselves are often harmless (a condition called diverticulosis), they can lead to complications such as diverticulitis (inflammation or infection) or bleeding.

At Central Gastro, we specialize in diagnosing and managing diverticular disease and its complications, providing expert care to restore your digestive health and prevent future issues.

Symptoms of Diverticular Disease

Diverticulosis:

• Often asymptomatic.
• Occasionally, mild bloating or changes in bowel habits.

Diverticulitis:

• Severe abdominal pain, typically in the lower left side.
• Fever or chills.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea).

Diverticular Bleeding:

• Bright red or maroon blood in stool.
• No associated pain in most cases.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially sudden abdominal pain or bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Causes and Risk Factors for Diverticular Disease

While the exact cause is unclear, several factors may contribute to diverticular disease:

• Low Fiber Diet: Leads to increased pressure in the colon.
• Aging: Risk increases with age.
• Obesity: Linked to a higher risk of diverticulitis.
• Smoking: Increases the likelihood of complications.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Reduces overall gut motility.
• Chronic Use of NSAIDs: Associated with diverticulitis or bleeding.

Diagnosis of Diverticular Disease

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to identify and evaluate diverticular disease and its complications:

• Colonoscopy: To visualize the colon and detect diverticula or bleeding.
• CT Scan: The gold standard for diagnosing diverticulitis and assessing its severity.
• Blood Tests: To check for signs of infection or inflammation.
• Stool Tests: To rule out infections causing similar symptoms.

Treatment Options for Diverticular Disease and Its Complications

1. Diverticulosis Management:

• High-Fiber Diet: Encourages regular bowel movements and reduces colon pressure.
• Hydration: Helps maintain stool consistency.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise and weight management.

2. Treatment for Diverticulitis:

• Mild Cases: 
  • Antibiotics to treat infection.
  • Clear liquid diet transitioning to a low-fiber diet during recovery.
• Moderate to Severe Cases: 
  • Hospitalization for IV antibiotics and fluids.
  • Pain management with appropriate medications.

3. Diverticular Bleeding Management:

• Endoscopic Therapy: 
  • Haemostatic therapy during a colonoscopy.
• Angiography: 
  • Used in severe cases to locate and stop bleeding through embolization.
• Surgical Intervention: 
  • Required for persistent or life-threatening bleeding.

4. Surgery for Complications:

For recurrent or severe complications:

• Bowel Resection: Removes the affected section of the colon.
• Drainage of Abscesses: In cases of localized infections.
• Fistula Repair: For abnormal connections caused by severe inflammation.

Preventing Diverticular Disease and Its Complications

Preventive strategies can help reduce the risk of complications:

• Increase Fiber Intake: Incorporate fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water daily.
• Exercise Regularly: Promotes gut motility and reduces colon pressure.
• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Supports overall digestive health.
• Monitor Medication Use: Avoid overuse of NSAIDs.

When to Seek Treatment for Diverticular Disease

If you experience persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or rectal bleeding, seek medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure a faster recovery.