Am I a Candidate for Gallbladder Surgery?
Gallbladder surgery is a major procedure, but with our laparoscopic techniques, many people are fantastic candidates for this treatment, which can help end gallstone pain.
How to Relieve (and Prevent) Diverticulitis Pain
The discomfort that comes from full-blown diverticulitis is no fun. But fortunately, there are many ways to manage this issue, from changing up your eating habits to seeking minimally invasive surgery. Let us give you the 411 on how exactly to relieve and prevent diverticulitis pain.
Boca Care Surgical Associates is here to give you all the answers for how to manage an issue like diverticulitis. Our provider, Avraham Belizon, MD, FACS, FASCRS, offers the best solutions for each patient’s particular situation. That’s why we encourage you to visit us for a quick and effective evaluation at our Boca Raton, FL, office.
Why diverticulitis occurs (and why it’s so painful)
Diverticulitis starts as diverticulosis, a condition that causes small sacs to form in the colon, creating weak areas in this tissue. Sometimes, the diverticula (as the sacs are called) don’t cause any symptoms. But when they become inflamed, this is called diverticulitis, and it’s the leading cause of the pain you’re feeling.
Many people live with diverticulosis and diverticulitis, managing their condition without significant issues. But for others, it can cause serious distress. In fact, according to the Office of Veterans Affairs, it’s the third most common gastrointestinal condition to cause hospitalization in the United States. So, if you are dealing with severe pain, what can you do about it?
Relieving and preventing diverticulitis pain
Diverticulitis does create painful symptoms, but many people have found they can do things to prevent the discomfort associated with a diverticulitis flare-up. One of the best ways to prevent further flare-ups is to make some changes to your diet. These may include
- Eating foods that are high in fiber
- Drinking lots of water
- Planning more meals around fruits and vegetables, rather than meat
In addition, people who get regular exercise, quit smoking, and maintain a healthy weight have been known to deal with fewer diverticulitis flare-ups over time.
However, if you’re currently struggling with diverticulitis pain, you’ll need to focus more on relieving the discomfort now. There are ways of doing this, many of which also revolve around your diet. Consider keeping a clear liquid diet for a time, but make sure you discuss this with your doctor first. Clear liquid diets include food and drinks like
- Clear broth
- Jello
- Popsicles
- Soda
- Tea
- Water or ice chips
- Fruit juice with no pulp
- Coffee with no milk or creamer
Over time, you’ll work with your provider to begin eating solid foods again, most of which will start with low fiber options until you’re fully recovered from your pain. Remember: you should only go on this liquid diet when under the care of a provider and follow their rules for exactly how long you should stay on it.
Treating the problem for good: Is surgery the answer?
Making lifestyle changes and dieting can be helpful, but these actions won’t treat your diverticulitis for good. And while there are medications you might be given to treat infections in your diverticula, the sacs themselves won’t go away by taking drugs. So, what is the permanent solution to this problem?
Surgery removes the sacs and the parts of your colon that have been damaged. This treatment will allow you to stop experiencing diverticulitis pain and to begin healing from this condition. It can take time to prepare for surgery, and aftercare will still require some changes to your diet and lifestyle. But often, it’s an excellent solution for long-term health.
You don’t need to live with diverticulitis pain
Not everyone needs surgery; in fact, some people do well with lifestyle modifications alone. But whether you require surgical treatment or simply a new diet, we recommend discussing the problem with our care team. After all, you shouldn’t have to live with a painful condition that could be treated or managed with the help of your provider.
If you’re ready to visit our Boca Raton, FL, office for a consultation, make an appointment online or give us a call. We’re here to help!
You Might Also Enjoy...
4 Common Treatments for Fecal Incontinence
Many people worry about telling their doctor that they struggle with stool leakage because of the embarrassment factor. But fecal incontinence can be treated — and in many different ways — so use this as your motivation to get help.
Encouraging Facts About Stage 1 Rectal Cancer
Stage 1 cancer is a scary diagnosis for anyone, but knowing the facts can take it from a cloud of doubt and fear into an understanding of just how positive your situation is. We’re happy to give you all the information you need.
5 Myths About Colon Cancer Debunked
Colon cancer is, unfortunately, a condition many people misunderstand. We're happy to dispel confusion and misinformation so you can fully understand your diagnosis.
How to Tell If You Have a Hernia
Did you know there’s more than one kind of hernia? This condition can occur in a number of places and cause many different symptoms, but a hiatal hernia can be hard to diagnose. Learn more about this condition and see if it might be affecting you.
Rectal Prolapse After Childbirth: What You Need to Know
Did you know rectal prolapse is extremely common after giving birth? Unfortunately, many women experience this issue and suffer in silence. But it’s important to understand that help is available, and you can live without pain.