Nashville, TN
A 37-year-old male asked:
I have diverticulitis. my lower abdomen and left side hurt a lot. ct scan a few weeks ago normal. is this the diverticulitis or what? how can it stop?
3 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
Dr. Imran Saeedanswered
General Surgery 21 years experience
If your symp are : Similar to at the time when the ct was done then it is likely not diverticulitis as cts are very sensitive. Do you have any symp to suggest a kidney stone such as l side pain or any urinary symp? Sometimes colon can have spasms specially when you have diverticulosis and thatcan also cause llq pain. Other possib is colitis. See a GI doc as u may require a colonoscopy to rule out other etiologies.
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5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Peter Ihleanswered
Orthopedic Surgery 56 years experience
Surgery if all fails: If u have been hospitalized and needed IV antibiotics then got better, ur chance of a repeat of the infection. I then would consult a surgeon 4 possible partial colonectomy while u r well as it usually can be done with no colostomy. If you are sick and need emergency procedure for this a colostomy is usually needed and later closed when all is well. I did it this way and did not need a colostomy.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
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Dr. John Valenteanswered
36 years experience
Perhaps...but: Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition of the colon. Attacks can occur once or repeatedly and usually are treated with antibiotics, reserving surgery for those with complications or for severe, repeat attacks. A ct while you hurt should show inflammation, but a ct just before the attack can be normal. Persistent pain is a good reason to see a surgeon, even if you saw one before, to be safe.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Mark Hoepfner commented
Surgery 41 years experience
Diverticulitis is an infection needing antibiotics. It is not likely present if not seen on CT scan. Have you had a colonoscopy? How do you know you have infected diverticulitis?
Jul 11, 2013
Dr. Peter Ihle commented
Orthopedic Surgery 56 years experience
I agree with Dr H, infection not inflammation.
Oct 23, 2013
Last updated Mar 12, 2020
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