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Diverticulitis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Treatment:

Acute diverticulitis requires antibiotic therapy.

Recurrent attacks or presence of perforation, fistula (abnormal tube-like passage), or abscess requires surgical removal of the involved portion of the colon.

After the acute infection has stabilized, diverticulitis is treated by increasing the bulk in the diet with high-fiber foods and bulk additives such as psyllium.

Expectations (prognosis):

Usually, this is a mild condition that responds well to treatment.

Complications:

• Abscess formation
• Perforation of the colon leading to peritonitis
• Stricture or fistula formation

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms of diverticulitis occur.

Also call if you have diverticulitis and symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.

• Review Date: 5/4/2006
• Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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