Diverticulitis Learning Center

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Welcome

Diverticulitis is inflammation of an abnormal pouch (diverticulum) in the intestinal wall. These pouches are usually found in the large intestine (colon). The presence of the pouches themselves is called diverticulosis.

Basic Info

Symptoms
Abdominal pain, usually in the left lower abdomen but can be anywhere; Chills; Fever; Nausea; Vomiting.
Causes
Small protruding sacs of the inner lining of the intestine (diverticulosis) can develop in any part of the intestine. T...
Tests
Tests showing diverticulitis may include: CT scan revealing thickening of the inflamed area; Abdominal palpation showin...
Treatments
Acute diverticulitis requires antibiotic therapy. Recurrent attacks or presence of perforation, fistula (abnormal tube-...
Drugs
  • ampicillin-sulbactam
  • atropine/hyoscyamine/PB/scopolamine
  • cephalexin
Risk Factors
  • Age more than 60 years
  • Low Fiber Diet
Complications
Abscess formation; Perforation of the colon leading to peritonitis; Stricture or fistula formation.
Prevention
A high-fiber diet may prevent development of diverticulosis. Many people, including doctors, tell patients with a histo...
Doctor Specialties
Call your health care provider if symptoms of diverticulitis occur. Also call if you have diverticulitis and symptoms w...

Basic Info

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