Question 1

is there over-the-counter medicine that i can take for diverticulitis?

Accepted Answer

No: Diverticulosis is a process through which the colon makes "pockets" over time. It is a common condition and generally does not cause discomfort or fever. However, when one of these pockets becomes obstructed through stool or food by-products, the condition is called diverticulitis. This is a more serious condition for which antibiotics, either orally or intravenously administered, are required.

Question 2

what are the treatment options for diverticulitis?

Accepted Answer

Diet and fluids: When talking of diverticulosis, eat a high fiber diet and drink a minimum of 80-100 ounces of noncaffeinated, non alcoholic fluid daily, more if you do strenous activity or fly in planes a lot. If you have divertiulitis, ie infected diverticulum low fiber diet and 2 weeks of antibiotics. Maintain low fiber for 4-6 weeks after resolution of symptoms the resume recommendations for diverticulosis.

Question 3

when is surgery necessary or required for treatment of diverticulitis?

Accepted Answer

Complications: Of all people who have diverticulosis,  only about 1% end up needing surgery. Surgery is reserved for complications of diverticulitis including generalized peritonitis, chronic narrowing of the colon (stricture), and post-inflammatory connections between the colon and bladder or vagina (fistulae). In addition, some people with many recurrent attacks opt for surgery.

Question 4

is fluconazole an effective treatment for diverticulitis?

Accepted Answer

Not: By itself. Fluconozole is used as a treatment for a yeast (candida) infection. Diverticulitis treatment needs proper broad spectrum coverage for intestinal bacteria (gram negatives & anaerobes).

Question 5

what is diverticulitis treatment?

Accepted Answer

Antibiotics: Usually antibiotics. Severe cases may require surgery.

Question 6

what's a simple, cheap treatment for my diverticulosis and diverticulitis?

Accepted Answer

2 different answers: Diverticulosis best managed with hi fiber diet and plenty of noncaffeinated fluids, avoiding nuts, seeds, and popcorn.
Diverticulitis needs confirmatory diagnostic test which may include ct scan, cbc, physical exam, prior colonoscopy reports and is treated with antibiotics, modified low fiber diet and potentially surgery for recurrent episodes or complications such as abscess, fistula, obstructio.

Question 7

what is the best treatment for diverticulitis flare up, no blood just feeling swollen on lower left side and a little uncomfortable?

Accepted Answer

Modify diet: You may want to review your diet to see what you did that may have exercabated the symptoms. It seems like you were having this before is why thought of it. You probably already know that your diet content of fruits, vegetables adequate fluid intake and probably probiotics may be helpful with regular exercises.

Question 8

is it possible for diverticulitis to come back in a month after a  2 week antibiotic treatment even if trying to stick to a diet?

Accepted Answer

Yes: 35 year old gentleman s/p 2 week treatment for diverticular disease now with unknown symptoms recurring. You should contact your treating physician immediately and if you have severe symptoms go to the ER. Diverticulosis is an anatomical problem that can lead to diverticulitis, the infection/abscess associated with the infection can be resistant or recur. Prior CT scan results helpful. Good luck.

Question 9

can i use an antibiotic that i have in the house to start treatment for diverticulitis? it is clarithromycin  250. i have had bouts of diverticulitis

Accepted Answer

Not the right Atb: Clatithromycin lacks coverage for most of the intestinal bacteria that may cause bouts of diverticulitis. Would suggest calling your PCP if there is phone coverage, visit a local Urgent Care if not too sick, or go to the local Er.

Question 10

74 yrs old lady has diverticula & pain in lower left abdomen but no fever. is it diverticulitis? what are treatment options?

Accepted Answer

Probably: and if it is, treatment with antibiotics is indicated..HOWEVER this situation REQURES and IN PERSON examination by her GP or Family Physician ASAP!
Hope this is helpful!
Dr Z

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Doctor answers about:

Over the counter treatment for diverticulitis

A member asked:

Is there over-the-counter medicine that i can take for diverticulitis?

A member asked:

What are the treatment options for diverticulitis?

A member asked:

When is surgery necessary or required for treatment of diverticulitis?

A member asked:

Is fluconazole an effective treatment for diverticulitis?

A member asked:

What is diverticulitis treatment?

A member asked:

What's a simple, cheap treatment for my diverticulosis and diverticulitis?

A member asked:

What is the best treatment for diverticulitis flare up, no blood just feeling swollen on lower left side and a little uncomfortable?

A member asked:

Is it possible for diverticulitis to come back in a month after a 2 week antibiotic treatment even if trying to stick to a diet?

A member asked:

Can i use an antibiotic that i have in the house to start treatment for diverticulitis? it is clarithromycin 250. i have had bouts of diverticulitis

A member asked:

74 yrs old lady has diverticula & pain in lower left abdomen but no fever. is it diverticulitis? what are treatment options?

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