by michelle vermont Acute Diverticulitis is one of the most common digestive condition that affects individuals who are into their 60s. T...
Acute Diverticulitis is one of the most common digestive condition that affects individuals who are into their 60s. The condition can be resolve through proper treatment and lifestyle modification, but recurrent attacks would require more medical intervention.
Protecting our health should be our topmost prerogative. However, as we age, our bodies no longer function the way they use to be and many diseases and complications arises. One of the common digestive problem that affects the western country is acute diverticulitis.
What is Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis happens when the lining of the large intestine develops pouches or sacs and becomes inflamed or infected. The exact cause of the appearance of the pouches is undetermined, but speculations shows that stress and bowel movement complications results to the development of these pouches.
Although the pouches are not a cause of worry and in fact, some patients do not experience any symptoms, inflammation or infection should be treated seriously. Uncomplicated inflammation would require home treatment and some medication however; serious or complicated ones would lead to the possibility of surgery.
Acute Diverticulitis Treatment
Symptoms of acute diverticulitis includes feeling of tenderness, pain in the lower left abdomen, fever and abdominal distention. Some patients may also experience constipation or diarrhea and nausea. In treating the condition, patients would be subjected to a Computer tomography or imaging test to determine the extent of the problem. In some cases, Colonoscopy or Laparoscopic surgery is recommended if the attacks are frequent and there are complications arising from the infection.
94% of patients are often treated as outpatients however hospitalization may be recommended depending on the tolerance of the patient.
For patients with mild conditions, health providers may provide antibiotics though taking no medication is also an option. For those with mild but recurring attacks, antibiotics are provided such as Ciprofloxacin or Trimethoprim.
A change in diet is also recommended where patients are placed into a clear liquid diet. The diet includes consuming clear liquid such as broth or soup for a few days. Once the bowel starts to heal, solid food may gradually be added to the diet. It is important to follow the doctor’s order as although the treatment is successful almost 70 to 100% for people with acute diverticulitis, some have developed complications requiring surgery.
To prevent diverticulitis, it is important to add fiber and drink plenty of fluid. Fiber works in softening the stool reducing the pressure in the digestive tract and water helps the fiber soften and bulk up the waste material. Exercising can also promote normal bowel function and help reduces the pressure in the colon.
Medical Disclaimer: The medical information provided is for information purposes only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship
, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
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