Definition
Diverticulitis occurs when small sacs (diverticula) located in the large intestine, become inflamed.
Cause
Diverticula are small pockets of bowel projecting through the outer muscle layer of the large intestine. These small sacs are forced out by increased pressure within the bowel. A low fibre diet causes increased force of contraction of the bowel raising pressure inside the bowel and contributing to the formation of diverticula. Constipation, decreased physical activity and ageing are also associated with formation of Diverticula.
Signs and symptoms
Inflammation of Diverticula occurs when certain bacteria colonise these sacs and set off an immune response. This inflammation is responsible for the symptoms experienced by the patient. Pain in the lower left abdomen, accompanied by nausea and vomiting, tenderness in the affected area and a slight fever may indicate that inflammation of the Diverticula has occurred.
Treatment options
Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice. In no way is this information intended to replace the advice of a medical practitioner.
Your Doctor may consider an X-ray or examine the bowel using a colonoscope. Antibiotics may be prescribed to kill the bacteria causing the inflammation. Surgery will only be used if the condition has led to other serious complications in the digestive tract. In addition, increasing dietary fibre, improving bowel habits and increasing physical activity are all important for treating and preventing Diverticulitis.
Diet hints
Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice. In no way is this information intended to replace the advice of a medical practitioner.
IN MILD CASES: Liquid diet at first; later a soft, low fibre diet and a daily psyllium seed preparation. A high fibre diet is recommended after one month.
IN SEVERE CASES: Generally, people with more severe symptoms or complications will be hospitalised and will be given intravenous fluids only. Later a soft diet will be resumed.
Vitamins/minerals/herbs
– Lactobacillus acidophilus may help re-establish the normal balance of bacteria in the bowels.
– Slippery elm, psyllium and ground flaxseeds may all help to prevent constipation and increase the bulk of the stool.
– Garlic may be useful in aiding digestion and destroying unwanted bacteria and parasites.
– Aloe vera juice may help promote healing of inflamed tissue. It may also help prevent constipation.
Pharmacist’s advice
Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
- Follow the Diet Hints closely.
- One of the best preventative measures for this ailment is to keep the bowels moving. Your Pharmacist can recommend a suitable fibre supplement.
- If dietary intake is inadequate nutritional supplements may be of benefit.
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