Font Size
A
A
A

Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis (cont.)

Medical Treatment

Diverticulosis with symptoms is usually treated as follows. This therapy is designed to soften stools and help them pass faster, which removes the conditions that cause diverticula in the first place.

Treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of the condition.

  • Simple cases can be treated by a health care practitioner at his or her office.

  • Treatment for uncomplicated cases usually consists of antibiotics and bowel rest. This usually involves two to three days of bowel rest, taking in only clear fluids (no food at all), so the colon may heal without having to work.

  • Complicated cases typically involve severe pain, fever, or bleeding. If an individual has any of these symptoms, he or she will probably be admitted to the hospital. Treatment consists of IV antibiotics, bowel rest, and possibly surgery.



Next: Surgery »

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis) - Symptoms at Onset of Disease

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

The symptoms of diverticulitis (diverticulosis) can vary greatly from patient to patient. What were your symptoms at the onset of your disease?

Anonymously share your comment to help others. Viewer Comments FAQs
See 4 Viewer Comments & Reviews

Submit Your Review


Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

GI Disorders

Get the latest treatment options.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz


Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Diverticulitis »

Diverticula are small mucosal herniations protruding through the intestinal layers and the smooth muscle along the natural openings created by the vasa recta or nutrient vessels in the wall of the colon.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary