Diverticulitis is an inflammation or infection of the diverticula, which are small pouch-like structures found in the lining of the digestive tract. When these structures become inflamed or infected, it is known as diverticulitis.
While the exact cause of diverticulitis is unknown, certain activities or habits such as a low fiber diet, physical inactivity, and smoking can be contributing factors. In addition, consuming too much sugar, red meat, and alcohol can also increase the risk of flare-ups.
Diverticulitis can be a serious condition and should be treated by a doctor. If left untreated, diverticulitis can lead to more serious health complications, such as abscesses, bowel obstructions, and perforations.
It is important to be aware of the potential triggers of diverticulitis flare-ups and take steps to avoid them. Eating plenty of fiber and staying active can help prevent flare-ups. Additionally, quitting smoking, limiting red meat and alcohol consumption, and avoiding excessive sugar can reduce the risk of developing diverticulitis or suffering from flare-ups.
What are the trigger foods for diverticulitis?
Trigger foods for diverticulitis can include dry or hard to digest foods that can get stuck in diverticula, the small, sac-like pouches in the digestive tract. Examples of these trigger foods are popcorn, sunflower seeds, nuts, raw fruits and vegetables with small seeds, and certain types of fiber-containing foods.
Foods that are more difficult to digest can put extra pressure on the intestine, leading to inflammation of the diverticula. Additionally, high-fat, greasy, or spicy foods can increase inflammation associated with diverticulitis.
It’s important to avoid these trigger foods when symptomatic flares of diverticulitis occur. Eating a low-fiber diet and avoiding these trigger foods for several weeks can be helpful for reducing inflammation and preventing future flares.
Some food alternatives that one could try when dealing with diverticulitis include cooked vegetables, canned fruits, and soft whole-grain foods like oatmeal or quinoa. It’s also important to ensure adequate water and nutrient intake and to speak with a physician or dietitian if one has questions.
How do you calm a diverticulitis flare up?
Diverticulitis flare-ups can be painful and disruptive. Fortunately, there are several strategies to help calm a diverticulitis flare up.
First and foremost, it is important to follow a healthy diet. When a flare-up is happening, a low-fiber diet is usually recommended. Avoiding high-fiber foods such as beans, nuts, and corn, as well as dairy and sugar products, can help to reduce flare-up symptoms.
Sticking to a diet of simple, easily digestible foods, such as soup, eggs, and cooked vegetables may help to reduce the severity of a flare-up.
In addition to diet, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids. Drink at least eight glasses of water, as well as other fluids, each day to prevent constipation. Keeping hydrated can also help to reduce inflammation and lessen the intensity of your diverticulitis flare-up.
Finally, it can be beneficial to take certain over-the-counter (OTC) drugs or antibiotics, if prescribed by your doctor. OTC drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help to reduce inflammation and ease pain.
Alternatively, your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to help reduce the infection that may be causing the flare-up.
In summary, following a low-fiber diet, remaining hydrated, and taking certain OTC drugs or antibiotics can help to calm a diverticulitis flare-up. If your symptoms persist, it’s important to visit your doctor to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Are bananas good for diverticulitis?
Yes, when part of a healthy and balanced diet, bananas can be a good choice for those suffering from diverticulitis. Bananas are high in fiber and contain essential vitamins and minerals, making them an ideal part of a nutritious diet for those suffering from this condition.
They are also easy to digest and low in fat which is important for those with diverticulitis who is generally advised to avoid fats. They specifically contain pectin, a type of fiber that helps the body eliminate toxins while offering protective benefits to prevent cancer, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy digestive system.
Additionally, bananas also contain probiotics which are beneficial for those with diverticulitis as they help to restore and replenish the body’s balance of healthy bacteria. With so many health benefits, bananas can be an excellent choice in the diet of those with diverticulitis.
How can I stop diverticulitis pain immediately?
Unfortunately, there is no immediate remedy for diverticulitis pain. The best approach for dealing with diverticulitis pain is to take steps to reduce the symptoms and prevent further flare-ups. To reduce pain and discomfort, take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Drink plenty of fluids, get lots of rest, and avoid strenuous activity. If the pain is severe and ongoing, see your doctor to see if a stronger medicine is necessary. Dietary changes might also help.
Doctors typically recommend eating high-fiber foods, avoiding processed and high-fat foods, and possibly increasing your intake of probiotics. Adding fiber sources such as ground flaxseed, oat bran, oats, beans, or prunes to your diet may help reduce symptoms by softening your stool and promoting regularity.
It is important to stay on top of possible diverticulitis flare-ups. Keeping a food diary and tracking what you are eating can help you identify foods that may trigger your symptoms. If you experience a flare-up, avoiding that food in the future may help prevent additional episodes.
Does anything help diverticulitis pain?
Yes, there are things that can help with the pain associated with diverticulitis. Pain management is an important part of managing the condition. Generally, pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help to reduce discomfort, as well as prescribed medications.
In addition to medications, dietary changes may help improve symptoms including pain. It is recommended that people with diverticulitis limit their intake of high-fiber foods as this may help reduce abdominal pressure.
Instead, fluids and soft foods such as cooked vegetables, white bread, cooked cereals and cooked fruit should be eaten. Low-fiber food items like peeled potatoes, white rice, canned or soft-cooked fruits and eggs can also be eaten.
In some cases, a liquid diet may also be recommended.
Exercise may also help to relieve some of the pain associated with the condition, although it is important to speak with a doctor or other healthcare practitioner before engaging in any physical activity.
Gentle exercises such as walking or swimming can help to reduce abdominal discomfort.
Other remedies like stress management and relaxation techniques can also help to relieve pain, as can heat and cold therapies. Some studies suggest that reducing alcohol intake and losing excess weight may also help.
It is best to discuss all of these options with a doctor and devise a plan that works best for each individual.
Should I go to ER for diverticulitis pain?
It depends on the severity of the pain associated with your diverticulitis. Generally, if the pain is mild, you should see your regular doctor. If the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, like a fever, nausea, or vomiting, you should go to the ER.
It’s a good idea to call your doctor or visit an urgent care center, rather than going straight to the ER. Your healthcare provider will be able to determine the best plan of action for treating your diverticulitis.
Once at the ER, the doctor will likely perform a physical exam, take blood and urine tests, and order a CT scan to assess the severity of the condition. Treatment options may include antibiotics, rest, and changes to your diet.
If the diverticulitis is severe, you may have to be admitted to the hospital. It’s important to get prompt diagnosis and treatment in order to prevent any further complications.
How do I know if my diverticulitis is getting worse?
If you suspect that your diverticulitis is getting worse or if you are experiencing new or worsening symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. They can assess your overall health and determine if any further medical tests or treatment options are necessary.
Common signs that your diverticulitis may be getting worse include:
• Ongoing abdominal pain, which may be severe and accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and cramping
• A high fever (greater than 101°F / 38.3°C)
• Experiencing chills or feeling very tired and weak
• Unexpected weight loss
• Continued or worsening constipation or diarrhea
• Dark or bloody stool
In the event that your diverticulitis does worsen, it is important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics, suggest dietary changes to reduce symptoms, or recommend further testing.
Surgery may be warranted in severe cases.
