Diverticulitis Treatment in Katy, TX
Diverticulitis occurs when one or more diverticula, or small pouches that can form in the wall of the colon, become inflamed or infected. It may cause abdominal pain, tenderness, fever, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, or other digestive symptoms. At Katy Integrative Gastroenterology, our gastroenterology team evaluates diverticulitis and related digestive concerns to help determine the appropriate next steps based on your symptoms and individual health needs.
If you develop persistent or significant abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, fever, or other symptoms that may be associated with diverticulitis, a gastroenterologist in Katy, TX can evaluate your condition. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, diagnostic testing may include blood or stool tests, imaging, or other appropriate gastrointestinal evaluation.
What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation or infection of one or more diverticulum. Diverticula are tiny pouch-like structures that may be found in the intestinal wall, especially in older individuals.
Causes of Diverticulitis
The diverticula are weak spots within your intestinal walls that may balloon outwards. They become inflamed or infected when incompletely digested food or fecal matter blocks the opening into the diverticula, resulting in diverticulitis. Some of the common risk factors for diverticulitis include:
- Advanced age
- Obesity
- Lack of exercise
- Smoking
- Certain medications
Symptoms of Diverticulitis
The signs and symptoms of diverticulitis include:
- Pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Abdominal tenderness
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
Diagnosis of Diverticulitis
Your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history and perform a thorough physical examination including checking your abdomen for tenderness, and a digital rectal exam to identify any masses, bleeding, or other problems. Diagnostic tests to rule out other conditions include:
- Blood tests: Your blood will be tested for signs of anemia, liver or kidney problems, or infection.
- Stool sample: Your stool sample is checked for the presence of abnormal bacteria or parasite infection.
- CT scan: This test can detect the infected or inflamed diverticula and reveal the severity of the diverticulitis.
- Barium enema: In this test, a liquid containing barium is inserted through the anus. The liquid coats the inside of the colon, which helps make any abnormalities more visible on X-rays.
- Colonoscopy: In this exam, a tube-like instrument with a miniature camera and light source is inserted through the anus to detect changes and abnormalities of the large intestine (colon).
- Sigmoidoscopy: This test is used to examine part of the colon and rectum. A thin flexible tube with a light and camera is inserted into your rectum and moved into your sigmoid colon. The camera allows a visual inspection of your sigmoid colon and rectum.
- Angiography: This is an imaging test that uses X-rays to identify the source of rectal bleeding.
Treatment for Diverticulitis
Treatment depends on the severity of your signs and symptoms. Uncomplicated diverticulitis can be treated by medications and a liquid diet for a few days to improve the condition.
If you develop a complicated case of diverticulitis that cannot be treated with diet and medication alone, your doctor may advise you to undergo one of the following procedures:
- Needle Drainage: In this procedure, a needle is inserted into the abdomen to drain pus from an abdominal abscess.
- Surgery: If you have complications from the diverticulitis such as a bowel abscess, fistula, obstruction, bowel wall puncture, or weakened immune system, you may require surgery.
- Primary Bowel Resection: In this procedure, the doctor removes the diseased part of your intestine and then rejoins the healthy parts. This allows you to have normal bowel movements.
- Bowel Resection with Colostomy: In cases with a higher rate of inflammation, a bowel resection will be performed with the help of a colostomy (the healthy bowel is connected to an opening created in the abdominal wall for removal of waste), as the inflammation prevents the rejoining of the colon and rectum.
Prevention of Diverticulitis
Preventive measures for diverticulitis include:
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a healthy diet
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid smoking
Why Choose Katy Integrative Gastroenterology for Diverticulitis in Katy, TX?
Choosing a gastroenterology practice for diverticulitis care involves more than finding a convenient location. At Katy Integrative Gastroenterology, our team provides personalized digestive care focused on evaluating your symptoms and understanding the factors affecting your gastrointestinal health.
We take the time to review your symptoms, medical history, medications, bowel habits, and other relevant health factors. When diverticulitis is suspected, appropriate diagnostic evaluation can help determine the severity of the condition and guide an individualized treatment approach.
Our practice also takes an integrative approach to digestive health, incorporating gastroenterology, nutrition, and functional medicine when appropriate. We can provide guidance on dietary and lifestyle factors that may support digestive health as part of your overall care plan.
Patients in Katy, Houston, and surrounding communities can access comprehensive gastroenterology care for diverticulitis and other colon and digestive conditions.
Diverticulitis FAQs
What is diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis occurs when one or more diverticula, which are small pouches that can form in the colon wall, become inflamed or infected. It can cause abdominal pain and other digestive symptoms and may range from uncomplicated to complicated disease.
What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?
Common symptoms may include abdominal pain or tenderness, fever, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and changes in bowel habits. Some people may also experience rectal bleeding. Persistent or severe symptoms should be medically evaluated.
How is diverticulitis diagnosed?
Your gastroenterologist will review your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination. Depending on your individual situation, diagnostic testing may include blood tests, stool testing, CT imaging, or other studies. Colonoscopy may be recommended in appropriate circumstances, often after the acute inflammation has improved.
How is diverticulitis treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and complications of the condition. Uncomplicated cases may be managed with dietary modifications, fluids, rest, and medications when appropriate. Complicated diverticulitis, such as cases involving an abscess, perforation, fistula, or obstruction, may require drainage, hospitalization, surgery, or other specialized treatment.
Can diverticulitis come back?
Yes. Some people may experience recurrent episodes of diverticulitis. Your healthcare provider can discuss individual risk factors and appropriate strategies for maintaining digestive health and reducing the likelihood of future problems.
Can lifestyle changes help prevent diverticulitis?
Healthy lifestyle habits may support overall colon and digestive health. Depending on your individual needs, recommendations may include regular physical activity, adequate hydration, a balanced diet with appropriate fiber, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking.
Schedule a Diverticulitis Evaluation in Katy, TX
If you are experiencing abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, fever, nausea, or other symptoms that may be related to diverticulitis, Katy Integrative Gastroenterology can help evaluate your digestive concerns and determine whether further testing or treatment is appropriate.
Our gastroenterology team provides personalized digestive care for patients in Katy, Houston, and surrounding communities. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn more about diverticulitis evaluation and management in Katy, TX.
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