Diverticulitis: Causes, Clinical Features, Investigations, and Treatment
Published on Jun 14, 2018 and last reviewed on Nov 23, 2022 - 1 min read
Abstract
Diverticulitis is the inflammation of the diverticuli. Diverticuli is the abnormal outpouching of the large intestine wall. A patient in this condition can present with abdominal pain, fever, and diarrhea. Few can remain asymptomatic as well. Treatment depends upon the severity.
Inflammation of the outpouched part of the large intestinal wall, that is, inflammation of the diverticuli.
Causes
The exact cause is not clearly understood, but risk factors are as follows:
- Obesity.
- Smoking.
- Sedentary lifestyle.
- Less fiber in the diet.
- Fried non-vegetarian diet.
Clinical Features
- Few patients can be asymptomatic.
- Diarrhea.
- Abdominal pain.
- Blood in the stool.
- Fever.
These symptoms present according to the grade of severity.
Investigations
- Barium enema X-ray.
- Colonoscopy.
- CT scan abdomen.
Treatment
- High-fiber diet.
- Ispghula husk with milk.
- Treat diarrhea with an antidiarrheal drug if needed.
- Reduce stress and anxiety.
- Treat anemia by iron medication if hemoglobin is low.
- Take rest.
- Antibiotics like Metronidazole and Cefixime or Ofloxacin (broad-spectrum coverage) can be beneficial.
- More fluid intake.
- Avoid spicy food.
- In complicated cases, surgery is needed.
For more information consult a medical gastroenterologist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/medical-gastroenterologist
Last reviewed at:
23 Nov 2022 - 1 min read
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Dr. Goswami Parth Rajendragiri
Pathology
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