Salt Lake City, UT
A 33-year-old female asked:
How do u get diverticulitis, how do u know if u need surgery to cure it? what happens during surgery, how does it cure it?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Randy Stevensanswered
General Surgery 26 years experience
Diet and pressure : You are asking about diverticulitis. The cause is not completely known. It is known to be an outpouching of the colon and does not contain all layers so it is a pseudo aneurysm. Diet poor in fiber may contribute. Pressure exerted may also play a role. We know that as you age you are more likely to have diverticulitis. Many people have it but are asymptomatic.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Mark Hoepfneranswered
Surgery 41 years experience
Infection: Small out-pouches form on the outside of the colon, most often in the left lower abdomen. Infection of these pouches is diverticulitis. Prevent by eating high fiber foods, avoid junk foods, avoid constipation, drink plenty of liquids, take fiber supplements such as metamucil. Surgery to remove part of the colon is only for multiple episodes of recurrent infections, colon stricturing, bleeding.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Mark Hoepfner commented
Surgery 41 years experience
Provided original answer
Rarely emergency colon surgery with possible colostomy is indicated if a severe infection or abscess from diverticulitis rupture occurrs.
May 10, 2013
Last updated Mar 10, 2016
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