Diverticulosis is known as the development of some tiny pockets in the bowel lining. It can be formed as either pea-sized or much larger depending on the extent of the condition. Their formation is due to the constant pressure on the weaker areas of intestinal walls by liquid, waste, or gas. Constipation is also considered to be one of the major causes of this condition.
Diverticulosis is usually common in large intestines. It affects the majority of people in the above age bracket of 40. It can be higher in people over the age of 60. Regardless, it is a condition that tends to impact the health of many people and requires serious attention.
While many people trivialize the seriousness of this disease, they don’t realize that massive complications can occur if not treated. It can cause rectal bleeding or other infections that may upset the digestive system
The problem with colonic diverticulosis is that it is not readily discovered. You may feel tenderness in the areas affected and some light abdominal cramps. But that is not enough for patients to visit the doctor and get an accurate diagnosis.
The good thing about diverticulosis is that it can be resolved without medical treatment. It can require antibiotics in the rarest of cases and that is only when the infection is extremely severe. Sometimes the infection is so serious that you may be admitted to the hospital for direct medical treatment from a specialist. A surgeon is never necessary for removing the affected part of the bowel but the option is still available if you prefer it.
Once the infection is diagnosed, the experts will initially recommend the low-fiber diet as the best remedy. Also, they will encourage the intake of fluids, particularly water. The cure for the disease may take about a month and until then you can resume consuming fiber-rich food. Some antibiotics may also be added to your diet to accelerate the healing process.
In certain cases, the antibiotics may prove to be ineffective, and only then will you require emergency treatment. This may be required if you have a large abscess, peritonitis, perforation, or rectal bleeding.
To completely prevent this disease from exacerbating, you need to maintain good bowel habits. This means you need to participate in actions that provide regular bowel movements which will help avoid straining and constipation. Exercising is also a great way to facilitate healing in your intestines. Other than that, drinking water and keeping away from fiber food will ensure that your bowels are regulated.
This does not mean that the person with diverticulosis needs to completely keep away from the fiber.
The truth is that the person will require fiber on certain days just not every day. Some fiber-rich foods include asparagus, squash, beans, brown rice, beans, broccoli, carrots, spinach, cabbage, and other food products. Many nutritionists recommend 20 or 35 grams of fiber per day so it is best to follow their advice along with that of your doctor. Try and get enough rest and sleep as well to allow your metabolism to operate efficiently enough and better your health.
