Diverticulitis: If your lower left abdomen keeps hurting, be sure to read this.

My lower left abdomen has been persistently aching with a heavy sensation for several days.

Going back and forth to the bathroom...
Have you ever heard that it might be "diverticulitis" in such cases?

Diverticulitis occurs in the 'pouch (diverticulum)' that forms in the colon.
It is a disease that causes inflammation.

Although it feels unfamiliar, it occurs quite frequently among middle-aged and older adults.
These days, due to dietary habits, it's not uncommon even in their 30s and 40s.

 

 

 

 

Why does it happen? (Causes of diverticulitis)

 

There are various causes of diverticulitis.
The most common cause is a diet lacking in fiber.
It is said that people who mainly eat processed foods or do not drink water regularly tend to look good.

Constipation again, decline in intestinal function due to aging,
Or situations where intraintestinal pressure suddenly rises (such as straining during bowel movements) can also be a cause.

 

Diverticulitis symptoms start like this

 

At first, you might think it's just food poisoning.
However, diverticulitis usually presents in this way:

 

- Lower left abdominal pain
Feeling of bloating and gas in the stomach
- Fever, chills
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Feeling of indigestion and loss of appetite

 

Here, the fever rises or,
If your abdomen becomes hard and you have bloody stool
It might be a situation where you need to go to the emergency room.
It could be a complication like a gastric perforation.


Check the following diverticulitis symptom checklist and perform a self-diagnosis 👇👇

 

 

 

How is diverticulitis treated?

 

In mild cases, many improve with just taking antibiotics at home and adjusting their diet.
However, if the pain is severe or you have a fever, it is safer to go to the hospital and get tested.

If it worsens, hospitalization treatment is necessary.
If inflammation recurs frequently or leads to complications
Sometimes the diverticulum itself is removed through surgery.

 

What should I eat? (Diverticulitis food guide)

 

Diverticulitis diet should be adjusted according to the stage.

 

Acute phase (when feeling ill)

- Soft and easily digestible foods
White porridge, boiled potatoes, bananas, apple puree
- Spicy foods, fried items, raw vegetables, nuts ❌

 

Recovery phase (when there is no pain)

Gradually increase dietary fiber intake
- Oats, cabbage, whole grains, sweet potatoes, broccoli
- Make sure to drink enough water!

 

(※ In the past, it was advised not to eat nuts, but
Recently, there are many opinions that it can be adjusted according to individual digestion conditions.

 

Diverticulitis: Daily management methods

 

Consume enough dietary fiber and fluids to prevent constipation.
- Reduce overeating and binge eating
- Helping promote bowel movements through exercise
- Do not sit on the toilet for a long time
Reduce greasy and spicy foods

 

 

 

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If you have experienced similar symptoms before
I also recommend checking at the hospital at least once!




Source: National Health Information Portal -Colonic diverticulosis