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What is Diverticulosis?

How your gastroenterologists in Anchorage, AK, can help treat your diverticulosis

If you’ve noticed cramping or pain in your abdomen, there is a chance that you could be suffering from diverticulosis, a condition that is stomach-paindiagnosed in 200,000 people each year, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for this painful condition.

Here in Anchorage, AK, the gastroenterologists at Alaska Digestive and Liver Disease offer a full range of gastrointestinal services, including treatments for diverticulosis, to help you feel better. Read on to learn more!

 

The Basics on Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a colon-affecting condition that occurs when small areas of tissue are pushed out of weakened areas in the walls of your colon. Most often found in your sigmoid colon (the lowest section of the colon), these small areas of tissue (known as diverticula) can become inflamed, causing acute, severe pain. This is known as diverticulitis.

You may have diverticulosis if you experience:

  • Changes in your bowel habits
  • Cramping or pain in your abdomen
  • Diarrhea, bloating, or constipation
  • Blood in your stool

Diverticulosis is typically diagnosed by your gastroenterologist, who may recommend a series of lab tests and imaging to confirm a diagnosis. If you do have diverticulosis, your gastroenterologist may recommend taking medications like mesalazine or antibiotics like rifaximin to reduce symptoms. Your doctor may also suggest taking probiotics and fiber supplements, as well as slowly increasing your dietary intake of fiber.

If your diverticulosis does develop into painful diverticulitis, management of symptoms is vital to remaining comfortable. It’s important to rest and try a liquid diet for a few days. Gradually add solid foods to prevent the return of your painful symptoms. Severe diverticulitis could result in a hospital stay and may require intravenous antibiotics.

 

Concerned? Give us a call

To find out more about diverticulosis symptoms and treatment, call the gastroenterologists at Alaska Digestive and Liver Disease in Anchorage, AK. Dial (907) 569-1333 now and feel better!

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