Diverticulitis symptoms are more common for adults over the age of 60 and typically include abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. These symptoms are the result of an infection or inflammation of the diverticula, which are small pockets in the lining of the colon.
Diverticula are caused by increased pressure in the bowel from gas, waste, or fluids. Symptoms occur when these pockets bleed, become infected, or rupture.
Diverticulosis vs. Diverticulitis
The formation of diverticula is fairly common, especially as people age. These sac-like pockets develop in the naturally weak spots in the colon that give way under pressure and push through the colon wall. This condition is called diverticulosis and sometimes will include no symptoms at all.
Diverticulitis results from tears in the diverticula that cause inflammation and infection. If left untreated, diverticulitis can lead to complications such as rectal bleeding, abdominal infection, and colon obstruction.
Diverticulitis Treatment
The symptoms for uncomplicated diverticulitis are usually mild and typically can be treated at home with:
- A liquid diet
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Rest
Though mild diverticulitis may not pose great health risks, it is important to see a healthcare professional. Antibiotics may be prescribed to help ease symptoms and to treat possible infection.
Medical professionals will diagnose complicated diverticulitis if a patient has a bowel perforation, abscess, fistula, or a bowel obstruction. Surgery is sometimes required to repair these complications and may be recommended if a patient has suffered multiple episodes of diverticulitis.
Prevent Symptoms of Diverticulitis
Making adjustments to your diet and daily routine can help prevent diverticulitis symptoms:
- Increase fiber consumption. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will soften your waste materials and help them to pass more smoothly through the intestines.
- Drink plenty of water. Consuming increased amounts of water can help maximize the positive effects of added fiber in your diet.
- Exercise regularly. Exercising as little as 30 minutes each day helps promote healthy digestive function and relieves some of the pressure inside your colon.
Treatment for Diverticulitis Symptoms at FastMed Urgent Care
If you are bothered by symptoms of diverticulitis, don’t hesitate to stop by your local FastMed Urgent Care. You can simply walk in and find compassionate medical professionals ready to help you.
FastMed Urgent Care provides care that is high-quality, quick, and affordable. We pride ourselves on the efficiency of our offices, and we strive to get you in and out of the clinic in under an hour.
Contact us today if you are suffering from symptoms of diverticulitis. We accept all major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid so review our Insurance page to verify that your specific plan is accepted.
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Sources:
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diverticulitis/basics/definition
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diverticulitis/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies
WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/diverticular-disease
About FastMed
FastMed Urgent Care owns and operates nearly 200 centers in North Carolina, Arizona and Texas that provide a broad range of acute/episodic and preventive healthcare services 365 days a year. FastMed also provides workers’ compensation and other occupational health services at all its centers, and family and sports medicine services at select locations. FastMed has successfully treated more than six million patients and is the only independent urgent care operator in North Carolina, Arizona and Texas to be awarded The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information about locations, services, hours of operation, insurance and prices, visit www.fastmed.com.