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Diverticulitis - what to ask your doctor

Definition of Diverticulitis - what to ask your doctor :

Diverticulitis is inflammation of small pouches (diverticula) that can form in the walls of your large intestine. This leads to fever and pain in your belly.

Below are some questions you may want to ask your doctor or nurse about diverticulitis.

Questions:

What causes diverticulitis?

What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?

What type of diet should I be eating?

  • How do I get more fiber in my diet?
  • Are there foods that I should not be eating?
  • Is it okay to drink coffee or tea, or alcohol?

What should I do when my symptoms become worse?

  • Do I need to change what I eat?
  • Are there medicines that I should take?
  • When should I call the doctor?

What are the complications of diverticulitis?

Will I ever need surgery?

  • Reviewed last on: 4/15/2009
  • David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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