
Diverticulosis is a discomfort condition in humans, responsible for excretion problems more precisely, bowel problems. Let’s take look at the treatment measures to cure this not-so-harmful but a very common painful condition.
Many times, it happens that the increased pressure on the colon of the intestine forces it to bulge and form small bulging sacks protruding from the large intestinal wall. They form pouches known as diverticula which rupture; the condition scientifically being termed as diverticulosis. It often leads to diverticulitis which is the inflammation of the colon and is extremely painful. The cause for diverticulosis is supposed to be low fiber diet and constipation, and the treatment includes a diet plan with high fiber foods coupled with antibiotics. It generally affects older sections (above 60 years) of the society.
Approximately, 10% of Americans over the age of 40 have diverticulitis. As age increases, the condition becomes more prevalent. Over half of people older than 60 years of age, develop the condition, and about two-thirds of individuals older than 80 years of age are believed to have this disease. It is very common in countries like United States, England ,and Australia where people hog on low fiber and processed carbohydrate diets. This article gives you some information about the diverticulosis treatment measures.
Symptoms
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever and chills
- Bowel problems
- Vomiting
- Mild cramps
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Bright red blood clots
- Maroon colored stool
Treatment Options
As I mentioned earlier, diverticulosis can be cured by consuming proper diet and taking antibiotics therapy suggested by the doctor will eliminate it completely.
Diet
Dietary fiber is very important for people with diverticulosis. Consumption of insoluble fibers like oat bran and wheat bran, and soluble fibers present in fruits and vegetables is recommended, since it increases the bulk of stool and stimulates the bowel movement. These foods help keep the bacteria in the intestine healthy and assist in eliminating the toxins from the body. Along with this, drinking lots of fluids especially water is of utmost importance to flush out body wastes. One can go for fiber supplements like ground flax seeds or Metamucil or Hydrocil as well since it works wonders.
Dietary Recommendations
- Fruits: Apple, prunes (stewed), banana, blueberries, figs, oranges, peaches, pears, pineapples, nectarine, cherries.
- Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, brussels sprouts, onions, winter squash, sweet potato (skinned), green peas, potato (skinned), mixed vegetables, cauliflower, spinach, turnip greens.
- Other Foods: Navy beans, kidney beans, black beans, packet of whole grain cereals, yogurt, cakes and cookies made from oatmeal and fruits, baked tortilla corn chips.
Antibiotics
Since divericulosis is said to affect older people, antibiotic therapy is essential cause of the weak immunity shown by these sections. The antibiotics used are Ciprofloxacin, Metronidazole, Cephalexin, and Doxycycline. Intravenous treatments of the above antibiotics might be required if patients are unable to sustain oral doses.
Self-help Tips
- Foods with small seeds, like strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, and nuts are the foods to avoid with diverticulosis since they can get lodged in the pouches of the intestine.
- Eat only high fiber foods always. Make some diverticulitis diet recipes. You’ll enjoy eating them.
- Avoid straining during bowel movements.
- Have a good bowel routine.
- Avoid very hot or cold foods and fluids which would lead to gases.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Use natural laxatives if required.
- Drink as much water as you can say 8 glasses per day.
- Eat properly and exercise regularly.
After knowing the treatment, you need not worry. These measures will surely help you cure this discomfort condition. Make sure the diagnosis occurs early so as not to lead to complications and surgery. Eat healthy and do take good care of yourself. See ya!
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.