The colon can develop pouches or sacs, referred to as diverticula, due to weak areas in the wall of the large intestine. The condition affects about 10 percent of the U.S. population older than 40, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Diverticulitis is an inflammation and infection of the diverticula. Symptoms of diverticulitis include pain in the abdomen--especially the lower left side--and constipation. Treatment for diverticulitis includes antibiotics, bed rest and surgery. You can treat mild cases of diverticulitis at home.
Liquid Diet
During an acute diverticulitis attack you need a liquid diet, according to MayoClinic.com. A clear liquid diet is the best for several days after symptoms begin. A clear liquid diet consists of items such as broth, gelatin, water, clear carbonated beverages and ice pops. The liquid diet allows the intestines to rest and heal. Once symptoms begin to improve, you may begin to add low-fiber foods into the diet, including foods such as yogurt, eggs, cooked vegetables and peanut butter. After a recovery from the attack, high-fiber foods, such as whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables and dried beans, can help prevent further attacks. You may have to wait about a month before beginning the high-fiber foods, according to the Merck Manuals. Using a fiber supplement will also help increase dietary fiber needs after recovery and keep stool softened. Increasing fluid intake with the high-fiber foods helps prevent constipation.
Rest
Resting the body and the colon is important during recovery from diverticulitis. Staying in bed and getting plenty of rest can increase the likelihood of recovery without further complications, such as the need for surgery to treat the condition. After the symptoms begin to improve, you can slowly increase activity levels. After recovery, exercising at least 30 minutes daily helps prevent further attacks of diverticulitis, according to MayoClinic.com.
Medications
Medications can help ease the discomfort of diverticulitis. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, help decrease the pain associated with the infection. A physician may prescribe oral antibiotics to treat the infection in the large intestine.
Member Comments