Diverticulitis

Alternative names:

diverticula; diverticulosis

Treatment:

Acute diverticulitis requires antibiotic therapy.

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

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

Expectations (prognosis):

Usually cases are mild and respond 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.