A doctor may prescribe antibiotics and recommend following a liquid diet. Most people get better with this treatment. Some people may need surgery and other treatments.
Surgery: Serious problems from diverticulitis are treated with surgery. Surgeons can clean the abdomen after infections and remove bleeding pouches and fistulas. Colon resection: If you get diverticulitis many times, your doctor might suggest taking out the part of the colon with diverticula. Healthy sections can be joined together. With the diverticula gone, you may avoid other infections. Emergency surgery: If you have severe problems, you may need emergency surgery to clear the infection and remove the part of the colon. Later, the second surgery rejoins the healthy sections of the colon. The colon is separated for a brief time between surgeries because rejoining the colon during the first surgery is not always safe. A temporary colostomy is needed between the two surgeries. A colostomy is an opening made on the abdomen where a plastic bag is connected to collect stool after food is digested. The surgeon makes the opening, called a stoma, and connects it to the end of the colon.This answer is based on source information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Depending upon the severity of the episode, treatment of an attack of diverticulitis may require management as an outpatient or inpatient. Affected individuals may only be able to tolerate an altered diet and there may be the need to temporarily modify their diet to include predominantly liquids or low-residue food-stuffs. Oral or intravenous antibiotics are also usually administered. Some complications of diverticulitis and severe attacks may need surgery.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.