Diverticulosis - treatment: medication, diet modification and surgery

Author:
Bc. Lukáš Tóth
Bc. Lukáš Tóth
Healthcare worker

The treatment of diverticulosis depends on its extent, stage, as well as the symptoms and complications present. In uncomplicated diverticulitis, conservative treatment is used, which is completely successful in a high percentage. This includes the administration of antibiotics (ATB).

Possibly painkillers. It is important to fasting and bed rest. 

Conservative treatment can also be performed on an outpatient basis, in the case of a mild course. In the more severe form, hospitalization is required. The therapy combines conservative treatment and surgery. Of course, it depends on the complications present. For example, in the case of abscesses, conservative therapy is chosen if its size is less than 4-5 cm.

Drainage of abscesses is performed at size over 5 cm or if conservative treatment is unsuccessful. The operation is done under CT or USG control. The fistula usually does not require urgent surgery. On the contrary, it is indicated in the case of diffuse peritonitis or ileus (intestinal obstruction).

In the case of a severe disorder, part of the affected intestine may be surgically removed. Liquid food and intravenous nutrition are given after the operation. Until the intestines heal. Usually, after the removal of a part of the intestine, the remaining ends are not joined together immediately, but only in a second operation, in order to restore a better connection of the tube. A temporary colostomy is being created.

After curing diverticulitis itself, it is important to adjust your eating habits. The diet should be higher in fiber. Alternatively, it is good to supplement the administration of probiotics. Psyllium, chili or ground flax seeds are suitable. Which helps to avoid loose stools and constipation.

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Bc. Lukáš Tóth
Bc. Lukáš Tóth
Healthcare worker
The secondary medical school in Nitra gave me the basis for my career in the field of health and diseases. Thanks to it, I worked for 2 years in the traumatology clinic and outpatient clinic at the Nitra Hospital. Since 2006 I was employed in the emergency medical service, where I stayed until 2017. I completed my bachelor's degree at the University of Constantine the Philosopher in Nitra in the field of emergency health care. The bachelor's degree allowed me to continue my mission as a paramedic. In the meantime, I got a job at the emergency line 155. I have been working in pre-hospital health care until today. I had an interest in people, health and even diseases in my childhood, which gave me the prerequisite to pursue this topic in adulthood. Studying and acquiring new information in practice provided me with a great basis for writing professional texts, in the form of articles that can be understood by ordinary people. Thus, my interest in the Health Portal has a solid foundation in years of practice and personal interest. Similarly, I am also interested in healthy eating, nutrition and overall healthy lifestyle. I fill my free time with family and sports.
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