Diverticulitis
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat is diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is a condition that could follow diverticulosis. Diverticulosis is a condition where small pouches or pockets called diverticula bulge through the outer lining of the intestine. Once these pockets have formed, they can become infected and start to swell. Diverticulitis occurs when this infection or inflammation takes place. If you have diverticulosis it is important to be under the observation of a gastroenterologist. You can find board-certified gastroenterologists through the nation's leading physician-led network of GI specialists, GI Alliance.
What causes diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is typically is caused when the diverticula tear and become susceptible to inflammation, infection, or both. Some of the risk factors associated with diverticulitis are very similar to those risk factors associated with diverticulosis and include:
- Aging
- Being overweight
- Some medications – such as anti-inflammatory drugs including ibuprofen/Advil®
- Smoking
- Low fiber, high-fat diets
- Lack of exercise
Prevention of diverticulitis includes:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Regular exercise
- High-fiber, low-fat diet
You can partner with a gastroenterologist through GI Alliance to help you determine the cause of your illness and how to prevent it.
What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?
The main symptoms of diverticulitis can include:
- Abdominal pain – usually constant and persistent for several days
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdomen being tender to the touch
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
If you have constant, unexplained abdominal pain, or any combination of the above symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your gastroenterologist today. You can find a GI doctor through GI Alliance.
What are some possible treatments for diverticulitis?
The treatments for diverticulitis depend on the severity of your condition. Following diagnosis, your physician will be able to determine which treatments will be necessary. Some of these treatments include:
- Antibiotics
- Liquid diet
- Abdominal abscess draining
- Surgery
To learn which treatments would best assist with your specific condition, contact GI Alliance and partner with an expert gastroenterologist.
Expert help for diverticulitis
If you're looking for a possible treatment plan for diverticulitis or would like to prevent the illness, then trust the expert gastroenterologists at the nation's leading physician-led network of GI specialists, GI Alliance. The board-certified doctors at GI Alliance aim to create a high-quality, patient-centric experience that helps you live in optimal health. If you have been diagnosed with, or suspect, diverticulitis contact GI Alliance right away.
Diverticulitis Videos
Reviews
Very caring and spent all the time I needed to help me feel better
Dr. Awtrey and his team are the best! Colonoscopy can be a scary and uncomfortable procedure, but Dr. Awtrey made it feel easy. I also felt that he would handle it for me with total caring, skill and professionalism, whatever the outcome. I trust Dr. Awtrey, with good reason.
Appreciated the professionalism and thoroughness of the visit with Dr. Ramos
Great experience. Everyone was friendly. Procedure was as exactly as described, started on time, and finished quickly. Highly recommend!
I had a very positive experience with Michelle Hendricks. She is patient, thorough and easy to talk to. I felt like she addressed all of my questions with genuine concern.
109701
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating