What Is Diverticulosis?

Diverticulosis is the condition of having diverticula, which are outpouchings of the colon that poke through the muscle wall due to weakness in these spots.

What is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is simply diverticulosis which has become problematic due to inflamed and/or infected diverticula.

What are the Symptoms of Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis?

Diverticulosis is often asymptomatic. Sometimes, it manifests as cramps, bloating, or constipation. When it becomes diverticulitis, there is more substantial abdominal pain, and there is often tenderness in the lower left quadrant of the abdomen.

Who Is Likely To Get Diverticular Disease?

Americans and Western Europeans (more than Africans and Asians)

People over 40

People who eat low-fiber diets

What Does Treatment for Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis Involve?

For diverticulosis, it is best to increase the amount of dietary fiber to prevent further pressure on the colon and worsening of the diverticula.

When the condition progresses to diverticulitis, antibiotics and pain relievers are generally indicated. Occasionally, diverticulitis causes severe pain and may have complications such as peritonitis, abscess, or fistulae. These often necessitate surgery to correct the problem.

What Are The Advantages Of Treatment?

• Pain and discomfort are relieved
• The possibility of future attacks is diminished

How Long Does It Take?

Surgery generally takes several hours but varies depending on the individual procedure and patient.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

This depends on the particular manifestation of the disease. Usually, one surgery will suffice, but in complex cases, further surgery may be required.

When Will I See Results?

It takes time for the colon to rest and recover from an attack of diverticulitis. You will gradually start feeling better. To treat the underlying condition, fiber supplementation is advisable, and it takes some time for the colon to become conditioned to the increased dietary fiber.

What Are My Alternatives to Treat Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis?

Surgery is always a last resort. Medication to address pain and treatment of underlying conditions should be the first priority>.

Will I Have Pain?

Pain should be reduced by treatment.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

With surgery, you may require one to two weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

One of our board-certified gastroenterologists will perform the procedure.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover Diverticulitis Treatment?

Insurance should cover this condition and any approved treatments.