Diverticulitis Treatment: Comprehensive Guide from Diagnosis to Recovery

I still remember the day my doctor uttered the words "acute diverticulitis" – a diagnosis that would change my life in ways I couldn't have imagined. The sharp pain in my lower left abdomen that had brought me to the emergency room wasn't just a random stomach bug as I'd hoped. It was the beginning of my journey with a condition I'd heard of but never truly understood.

Diverticulitis occurs when small, bulging pouches (diverticula) that form in the digestive tract become inflamed or infected. For me and millions of others living with this condition, finding the right treatment approach isn't just about addressing symptoms – it's about reclaiming our lives.

This comprehensive guide combines what I've learned through my personal experience with evidence-based medical approaches. My goal is to provide you with the information I wish I'd had when I first received my diagnosis – from understanding treatment options to navigating the recovery process and beyond.

Important note: While I share my experiences and research, this article isn't a substitute for professional medical advice. Every person's condition is unique, and treatment should be personalized under healthcare professional guidance. When in doubt, always consult your doctor.

Understanding Diverticulitis Diagnosis: The Critical First Step

Before treatment can begin, proper diagnosis is essential. Understanding this process helped me feel more in control during a frightening time.

The Standard Diagnostic Process

When I arrived at the emergency room with severe abdominal pain, the diagnostic journey began immediately:

Clinical examination and history taking: My doctor carefully pressed on my abdomen (finding tenderness in the lower left quadrant) and asked about my symptoms, their duration, and my medical history.
Blood tests: Blood work revealed my elevated white blood cell count and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, both indicators of inflammation and possible infection.
Imaging tests: The definitive diagnosis came through a CT scan, which clearly showed the inflamed diverticula in my colon.

Dr. Lisa Strate, a gastroenterologist at the University of Washington, notes that "CT scan is the gold standard for diagnosing acute diverticulitis, with sensitivity and specificity exceeding 95%" (Strate & Morris, 2019).

Other imaging tests that may be used include:

Ultrasound (sometimes used for younger patients or pregnant women)
MRI (for cases where CT is contraindicated)
Colonoscopy (typically performed after inflammation resolves, not during acute episodes)

Understanding Severity Classification

My doctor explained that my case was classified as "uncomplicated diverticulitis" – a term I would come to understand as part of the Hinchey Classification system:

Modified Hinchey Classification:

Stage 0: Mild clinical diverticulitis
Stage Ia: Confined pericolic inflammation
Stage Ib: Confined pericolic abscess
Stage II: Pelvic, distant intra-abdominal, or retroperitoneal abscess
Stage III: Generalized purulent peritonitis
Stage IV: Generalized fecal peritonitis

This classification helps doctors determine appropriate treatment. My Stage Ia diagnosis meant antibiotics and rest were appropriate, rather than hospitalization or surgery. Understanding the severity levels of diverticulitis was crucial to comprehending my treatment plan.

My Experience with Diagnosis

The diagnosis process was overwhelming. Questions flooded my mind: How serious is this? Will I need surgery? Is this a lifelong condition? What did I do wrong?

What helped me most was writing down my questions before appointments and bringing a family member for support. I learned to ask for explanations in plain language and request resources I could review at home.

One question I wish I'd asked earlier: "What can I expect in the coming days and weeks?" Having a timeline and understanding what "improvement" would look like would have reduced my anxiety significantly.

Treating Uncomplicated Diverticulitis: Where Most Journeys Begin

Most people with diverticulitis, including myself, start with treatment for uncomplicated cases. These approaches aim to rest the bowel, fight infection, manage pain, and prevent complications.

Home Treatment: The First Line of Defense

For mild diverticulitis, doctors often recommend home treatment. This was my experience:

Dietary Management

My gastroenterologist prescribed a clear liquid diet for the first few days, which included:

Clear broths (no cream or solids)
Gelatin
Water and clear juices (no pulp)
Tea without milk
Clear sports drinks

This approach gives your digestive system a chance to rest and begin healing, as recommended by the Mayo Clinic's diverticulitis treatment guidelines.

As my symptoms improved, I gradually reintroduced low-fiber foods before transitioning to a high-fiber diet once the acute episode resolved. This progression looked like:

Clear liquids (2-3 days)
Low-fiber foods (white toast, eggs, pasta, fish)
Gradual fiber reintroduction (well-cooked vegetables, softer fruits)
High-fiber maintenance diet (whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables)

Following a comprehensive diverticulitis diet guide was crucial to my recovery, as was understanding how to properly reintroduce foods after a flare-up.

My tip: I created a meal planning calendar that helped me track my dietary progression. Having this visual guide removed the guesswork from meal preparation during recovery.

Rest and Relaxation Techniques

Physical rest is crucial during acute episodes. I took time off work and limited physical activity for about a week.

I also discovered that stress management played a significant role in my recovery. Techniques that helped me include:

Diaphragmatic breathing exercises
Guided meditation (using smartphone apps)
Gentle stretching once pain began to subside

Monitoring Symptoms

Self-monitoring became a vital part of my treatment. I kept a daily journal tracking:

Pain levels (scale of 1-10)
Body temperature
Bowel movements
Food and drink intake
Medication schedule

This record proved invaluable at follow-up appointments and helped me identify patterns in my recovery.

Warning signs that require immediate medical attention:

Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
Increased abdominal pain
Inability to keep liquids down
Dizziness or confusion
Bleeding from the rectum

Medication Treatment

Antibiotics have traditionally been the cornerstone of diverticulitis treatment, though approaches are evolving.

Antibiotic Therapy

For my uncomplicated diverticulitis, I was prescribed a 7-day course of oral antibiotics:

Ciprofloxacin (500mg twice daily)
Metronidazole (500mg three times daily)

These antibiotics target the bacteria commonly found in the colon. More recent research suggests that antibiotics may not be necessary for all cases of uncomplicated diverticulitis.

The American Gastroenterological Association's 2023 guidelines note: "Antibiotics should be used selectively rather than routinely in patients with uncomplicated diverticulitis" (Strate et al., 2023).

When weighing the pros and cons of different medications, it's important to consider both effectiveness and potential side effects.

My experience: While antibiotics helped resolve my infection, they also caused side effects including nausea and digestive disruption. Taking probiotics (started 2 hours after antibiotic doses) helped manage these side effects. This approach is supported by research from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health on using probiotics to reduce antibiotic-associated side effects.

Pain Management

Pain control is essential during acute episodes. My doctor recommended:

Acetaminophen for mild pain
Prescription pain relievers for moderate to severe pain

I found that a heating pad on my abdomen (on low setting) provided additional comfort between medication doses. The Cleveland Clinic confirms that heat therapy can help relieve diverticulitis discomfort.

Important note: Avoid NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) during acute diverticulitis as they may increase the risk of complications. For more specific techniques to relieve abdominal pain, I found these relief techniques for diverticulitis flares extremely helpful.

Anti-inflammatory Medications

Some doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory medications like mesalamine for diverticulitis, though research on their effectiveness is mixed.

A 2021 systematic review in the Journal of Gastroenterology found: "Current evidence does not support the routine use of mesalamine for preventing recurrent diverticulitis" (Lanas et al., 2021). The American College of Gastroenterology's guidelines also reflect this uncertainty about anti-inflammatory treatments.

Lifestyle Modifications During Recovery

Recovery from an acute episode requires temporary lifestyle adjustments:

Rest and Activity Progression

I followed this general activity timeline:

First week: Bed rest with bathroom breaks only
Second week: Light walking around the house
Third week: Short outdoor walks
Fourth week: Gradual return to normal activities

My insight: Setting realistic expectations was crucial. I initially pushed myself too hard and experienced setbacks. A gradual, patient approach to returning to normal activities proved much more effective.

Stress Management

The connection between stress and digestive health became clear during my recovery. I developed a daily stress management routine:

Morning mindfulness practice (10 minutes)
Mid-day deep breathing breaks
Evening reflection and gratitude journaling

These practices not only aided my recovery but have remained an important part of my long-term management plan.

Treating Complicated Diverticulitis: When More Intensive Intervention Is Needed

While my initial episode was uncomplicated, I've since learned about treatment approaches for more severe cases. Understanding these options is important for anyone living with diverticulitis.

Hospital-Based Treatment

Hospitalization becomes necessary when diverticulitis is severe or complicated by factors such as:

Inability to tolerate oral intake
Severe pain requiring IV pain management
High fever or signs of systemic infection
Abscesses, perforation, or obstruction
Failed outpatient treatment

Knowing when to go to the emergency room versus urgent care can be crucial for getting appropriate care in a timely manner.

During hospitalization, treatment typically includes:

IV antibiotics: Broad-spectrum antibiotics administered intravenously to combat infection.
Bowel rest: Nothing by mouth (NPO) initially, with possible nasogastric tube placement to decompress the bowel.
IV fluids: To maintain hydration and electrolyte balance while oral intake is restricted.
Pain management: IV medications for pain control, carefully monitored by nursing staff.
Continuous monitoring: Regular assessment of vital signs, pain levels, and response to treatment.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, hospitalization is typically required for patients with severe symptoms or those who cannot take oral antibiotics.

Preparing for a hospital stay: If hospitalization becomes necessary, bring:

List of all medications and allergies
Insurance information
Comfortable clothing for recovery days
Phone charger and entertainment items
Contact information for family members

Minimally Invasive Interventions and Drainage

For diverticulitis complicated by abscess formation, percutaneous drainage may be performed:

Percutaneous abscess drainage: Using CT or ultrasound guidance, a radiologist inserts a needle through the skin to drain the infected fluid collection. A drainage catheter may remain in place for several days.
Advantages: This approach may help patients avoid immediate surgery, allowing the acute infection to resolve before considering elective surgery if needed.

According to a study in the American Journal of Surgery: "Percutaneous drainage is successful in 70-90% of patients with diverticular abscesses, potentially avoiding emergency surgery" (Hawkins et al., 2020). The Society of Interventional Radiology provides detailed information about what to expect during this procedure.

Surgical Treatment Options

Surgery becomes necessary for approximately 15-30% of hospitalized patients with acute diverticulitis. Indications for surgery include:

Perforation with peritonitis
Abscess that cannot be drained percutaneously
Intestinal obstruction that doesn't resolve
Fistula formation
Recurrent episodes that significantly impact quality of life

Types of Surgical Procedures

Primary resection with anastomosis: The affected portion of the colon is removed and the healthy ends are reconnected. This is often performed as a single-stage procedure when conditions are favorable.
Hartmann's procedure: A two-stage procedure where the diseased segment is removed, the proximal end is brought out as a colostomy, and the rectal stump is closed. A second surgery later reverses the colostomy.
Laparoscopic versus open surgery: Minimally invasive laparoscopic approaches offer advantages of smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery, but may not be appropriate for all situations.

Dr. Justin Maykel, Chief of Colorectal Surgery at UMass Memorial Medical Center, explains: "Laparoscopic surgery for diverticulitis has revolutionized recovery, with most patients returning home within 3-5 days compared to 5-7 days with open procedures" (Maykel, 2022). The American College of Surgeons provides extensive information about surgical options and recovery expectations.

Preparing for Surgery

If surgery becomes necessary, preparation is key:

Meet with your surgeon to understand the specific procedure
Complete preoperative testing
Arrange for time off work and assistance at home
Prepare your home for recovery (bedroom on main floor if possible)
Learn about post-surgical care requirements

Post-Surgical Recovery

Recovery from diverticulitis surgery varies based on the procedure and individual factors:

Hospital recovery phase:
- Pain management
- Gradual return to eating
- Early ambulation (walking)
- Wound care
Home recovery phase:
- Restricted lifting (nothing over 10 pounds for 4-6 weeks)
- Gradual activity progression
- Dietary modifications
- Follow-up appointments

Important note for colostomy patients: If your surgery results in a temporary or permanent colostomy, a specialized ostomy nurse will provide training on stoma care. Support groups can also be invaluable during this adjustment period.

Follow-Up Treatment and Preventing Recurrence

After recovering from acute diverticulitis, focus shifts to preventing future episodes and monitoring for complications.

Post-Acute Monitoring

Following my acute episode, my follow-up care and recovery included:

Colonoscopy: Performed approximately 6-8 weeks after my symptoms resolved to rule out other conditions like colorectal cancer and assess the extent of diverticulosis.
Follow-up appointments: Initially every 3 months, then annually to monitor for recurring symptoms.
Routine bloodwork: Periodic blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or anemia.

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons recommends: "Colonoscopy should be performed after an episode of acute diverticulitis to exclude malignancy, typically 6-8 weeks after resolution of acute inflammation" (Hall et al., 2020). The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) also emphasizes the importance of follow-up care after an acute episode.

Long-Term Dietary Maintenance

Dietary management plays a crucial role in preventing recurrence:

High-fiber diet: I aim for 25-35 grams of fiber daily through:
- Whole grains (oats, brown rice, whole wheat)
- Legumes (beans, lentils, peas)
- Fruits and vegetables with skins
- Seeds and nuts (contrary to older recommendations that suggested avoiding these)
Personalized food plan: Through careful tracking, I identified specific trigger foods (for me, these include highly processed foods and excessive red meat).
Adequate hydration: I maintain a daily intake of 2-3 liters of water to support proper fiber digestion.

My experience: Gradually increasing fiber was crucial. When I tried adding too much fiber too quickly, I experienced bloating and discomfort. A gradual approach over several weeks worked much better.

Lifestyle Management

Long-term lifestyle modifications that have helped me prevent recurrence include:

Regular physical activity: 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days, including:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Yoga (particularly beneficial for gut-brain connection)
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the digestive system.
Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking improves overall gut health and reduces inflammation.
Stress management techniques: Continued use of meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness practices.

A study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found: "Physical activity is associated with a decreased risk of diverticulitis and diverticular bleeding" (Strate et al., 2022).

Managing Long-Term Complications

For some people, diverticulitis can lead to long-term complications that require specific management approaches.

Strictures

Repeated inflammation can cause narrowing (strictures) in the colon, which may cause symptoms like:

Constipation
Narrow stools
Abdominal bloating
Cramping pain

Management options include:

Dietary modifications
Stool softeners
Endoscopic balloon dilation
Surgery in severe cases

Fistulas

Fistulas are abnormal connections that form between the colon and another organ (commonly the bladder, vagina, or small intestine).

Common symptoms include:

Recurrent urinary tract infections (colovesical fistula)
Passage of stool or gas through the vagina (colovaginal fistula)
Diarrhea or malabsorption (coloenteric fistula)

Most fistulas require surgical repair, which is typically performed after the acute inflammation has resolved.

Recurrent Diverticulitis

Approximately 20% of people who have had diverticulitis will experience recurrence. Prevention strategies include:

Consistent dietary management: Maintaining high-fiber intake and avoiding identified trigger foods.
Regular checkups: Following recommended screening and monitoring schedules.
Prompt attention to symptoms: Recognizing early warning signs and seeking medical attention promptly.

For frequent recurrences, elective surgery may be recommended, especially for younger patients or those with compromised immune systems.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Along my treatment journey, I've explored several complementary approaches to support my conventional medical treatment.

Probiotics and Prebiotics

The gut microbiome plays a significant role in digestive health:

Probiotics: I incorporated fermented foods and a high-quality probiotic supplement containing multiple Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains.
Prebiotics: Foods like garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, and bananas help feed beneficial gut bacteria.

Research from the World Journal of Gastroenterology suggests: "Probiotics may help prevent recurrence of symptomatic diverticular disease, though more large-scale studies are needed" (Tursi et al., 2019).

My approach: I started with small amounts of fermented foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and gradually increased my intake to avoid digestive upset.

Herbal and Nutritional Supplements

Some natural supplements may support digestive health:

Aloe vera: Has anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe the digestive tract.
Slippery elm: Forms a gel when mixed with water that may coat and soothe the intestinal lining.
Omega-3 fatty acids: May help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

Important caution: Always discuss supplements with your healthcare provider before starting them, as some may interact with medications or be contraindicated with certain conditions.

Relaxation and Stress Management Therapies

Mind-body approaches that have helped me include:

Gut-directed hypnotherapy: Research shows this can reduce pain and improve quality of life for people with digestive disorders.
Gentle yoga: Specific poses that support digestion without straining the abdomen.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps address the anxiety that often accompanies chronic digestive conditions.
Breathing exercises: Deep diaphragmatic breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which supports healthy digestion.

A 2021 study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found: "Mind-body interventions show promising results for managing symptoms and improving quality of life in patients with gastrointestinal disorders" (Ballou & Keefer, 2021).

Psychological and Emotional Support

The emotional impact of diverticulitis is often overlooked but critically important to address.

Coping with Diagnosis

Receiving a diagnosis of diverticulitis can trigger various emotions:

Anxiety about the future
Frustration over dietary restrictions
Fear of pain and recurrence
Uncertainty about long-term implications

Strategies that helped me cope include:

Education: Learning about my condition gave me a sense of control
Connecting with others: Finding people who understood my experience
Setting small goals: Celebrating small improvements in my recovery

Support Groups and Resources

Finding community support was transformative for me. Resources that may help you include:

Online forums and support groups:
- The American Gastroenterological Association patient forums
- Facebook groups dedicated to diverticular disease
- Reddit communities like r/Diverticulitis
Local support groups: Ask your healthcare provider about in-person support groups in your area.
Mental health professionals: Therapists who specialize in chronic illness can provide valuable support.

Communicating with Family and Colleagues

Explaining diverticulitis to others can be challenging:

Family communication: I found it helpful to share educational resources with close family members and be specific about how they could support me.
Workplace discussions: Depending on your comfort level, a simple explanation like "I have a digestive condition that sometimes requires medical attention" may be sufficient for colleagues.
Setting boundaries: Learning to decline food that might trigger symptoms or activities that might exacerbate pain was initially difficult but necessary.

My approach: I created a brief "explanation card" with basic information about diverticulitis that I could share with close friends and family to help them understand my condition and dietary needs.

Special Treatment Considerations

Treatment approaches may need to be modified for certain populations and situations.

Diverticulitis in Younger Adults

Diverticulitis is increasingly common in adults under 50, and treatment considerations may differ:

More aggressive follow-up may be recommended due to the longer lifetime risk of recurrence
Earlier consideration of surgical options may be appropriate
Focus on lifestyle factors that may have contributed to early onset

Research from the American Journal of Gastroenterology notes: "Young patients with diverticulitis often present with more virulent disease and may have different risk factors than older populations" (Nguyen et al., 2021).

Diverticulitis in Older Adults

For elderly patients, treatment considerations include:

Careful medication selection due to potential interactions with existing prescriptions
Modified surgical approaches based on overall health status
Consideration of comorbidities that may complicate recovery
More cautious approach to elective surgery

Diverticulitis During Pregnancy

While uncommon, diverticulitis during pregnancy requires special consideration:

Modified imaging techniques to reduce radiation exposure (ultrasound preferred over CT)
Careful selection of antibiotics that are safe during pregnancy
Close monitoring of both maternal and fetal well-being
Multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterology and obstetrics

Working Effectively with Your Healthcare Team

Building and maintaining relationships with healthcare providers is essential for optimal treatment outcomes.

Building Your Care Team

My diverticulitis care team includes:

Primary care physician: Coordinates overall care and manages routine follow-up.
Gastroenterologist: Specializes in digestive disorders and manages acute episodes and long-term care.
Colorectal surgeon: Consulted for potential surgical interventions and complex cases.
Registered dietitian: Provides personalized dietary guidance.
Mental health professional: Helps address the psychological aspects of chronic illness.

Building a comprehensive healthcare team is essential for managing diverticulitis effectively. The American Gastroenterological Association recommends this multi-disciplinary approach to treatment.

My tip: I maintain a document with contact information for all my providers and share updates between them when necessary. I've also found that telemedicine options can be valuable for regular check-ins without requiring office visits.

Preparing for Appointments

Making the most of medical appointments requires preparation:

Track symptoms: I bring a log of recent symptoms, including timing, severity, and potential triggers.
List questions: I prioritize 3-5 most important questions for each visit.
Medication review: I bring a current list of all medications and supplements.
Take notes: I either record appointments (with permission) or bring someone to help take notes.

Navigating Insurance and Healthcare Systems

Understanding the financial aspects of diverticulitis treatment is important:

Insurance coverage: Familiarize yourself with what procedures, medications, and specialists are covered by your plan.
Prior authorizations: Some treatments may require pre-approval from insurance companies.
Appeal processes: Know how to appeal denied claims if necessary.
Financial assistance programs: Many hospitals and pharmaceutical companies offer programs for those with financial hardship.

My experience: After receiving an unexpected bill for my CT scan, I discovered my insurance required pre-authorization. I was able to appeal the denial by having my doctor document the emergency nature of the procedure, saving thousands of dollars.

My Personal Recovery Journey

Looking back on my diverticulitis journey, several aspects stand out that might help others navigating similar paths.

First Steps Toward Healing

My initial recovery period taught me several valuable lessons:

Patience is essential: Healing from diverticulitis isn't linear. There were days when I felt much better, followed by setbacks. Learning to take each day as it came was crucial.
Small victories matter: Celebrating the first day without pain, the first successful reintroduction of a new food, or the first walk around the block provided much-needed motivation.
Support is invaluable: Accepting help from family and friends during acute episodes allowed me to rest and focus on recovery.

Challenges and Victories

Along the way, I faced numerous challenges:

Dietary frustration: Finding the balance between prevention (high-fiber) and management during flares (low-fiber) took considerable trial and error.
Fear of recurrence: Every minor abdominal pain triggered anxiety about another flare-up.
Social implications: Navigating dining out, travel, and social events required new strategies and occasionally missing activities.

Victories that kept me going:

Longer periods between flares: As I refined my management approach, the time between episodes lengthened.
Knowledge as power: Understanding my triggers gave me a sense of control over my condition.
New perspectives: Diverticulitis taught me to prioritize health and well-being in ways I hadn't before.

Setting Realistic Recovery Goals

Recovery timelines vary significantly between individuals. Based on my experience and conversations with others:

Acute episode recovery: Typically 7-10 days before returning to most normal activities.
Post-surgical recovery: 4-6 weeks for laparoscopic procedures; 6-8 weeks for open surgeries.
Emotional adjustment: Often takes longer than physical recovery, sometimes months.
Finding your "new normal": Accepting and adapting to life with a chronic condition is an ongoing process.

My perspective: Rather than aiming for a complete "return to normal," I've found it more helpful to focus on creating a "new normal" that incorporates what I've learned about managing my condition.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

Living with diverticulitis has taught me that treatment isn't just about managing acute episodes—it's about developing a comprehensive approach to digestive health that encompasses medical care, nutrition, lifestyle, and emotional well-being.

Key Takeaways

Early intervention matters: Recognizing symptoms and seeking prompt treatment can prevent complications.
Treatment is multifaceted: From antibiotics to surgery, from diet to stress management, comprehensive care yields the best results.
Personalization is key: What works for one person may not work for another. Finding your specific triggers and effective management strategies takes time and attention.
Self-advocacy is essential: Being an active participant in your healthcare decisions leads to better outcomes.
Life with diverticulitis can be full and vibrant: With proper management, this condition doesn't have to define or limit your life.

Final Advice for Your Treatment Journey

As you navigate your own path with diverticulitis, remember:

Build knowledge: Education is your most powerful tool.
Find community: Connect with others who understand your experience.
Practice self-compassion: Healing takes time and isn't always straightforward.
Partner with providers: Work collaboratively with healthcare professionals who respect your input.
Remain hopeful: Treatment options continue to evolve and improve.

Living well with diverticulitis is possible. Through my own journey—from diagnosis through treatment and ongoing management—I've discovered that this condition, while challenging, has also taught me valuable lessons about resilience, self-care, and the importance of listening to my body.

Additional Resources

Support Groups and Forums:

Books and Reading:

"Living with Diverticulitis" by Sarah Setton
"The Complete Guide to Diverticulitis" by Karyn Repinski

Digital Tools:

Diverticulitis Diary (symptom tracking app)
Bowelle (food and symptom journal)

Related Articles on Diverticulitis.life:

References

American Gastroenterological Association. (2023). AGA Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Acute Diverticulitis. Gastroenterology, 164(1), 137-151.

Ballou, S., & Keefer, L. (2021). Psychological Interventions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 15(9), 1089-1103.

Hall, J., et al. (2020). The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Treatment of Left-Sided Colonic Diverticulitis. Diseases of the Colon & Rectum, 63(6), 728-747.

Hawkins, A. T., et al. (2020). Current management of diverticulitis. The American Journal of Surgery, 220(3), 526-533.

Lanas, A., et al. (2021). Non-antibiotic therapies for the prevention of diverticulitis recurrence: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Gastroenterology, 56(6), 542-552.

Maykel, J. (2022). Advances in Surgical Management of Diverticulitis. Surgical Clinics of North America, 102(2), 269-282.

Nguyen, G. C., et al. (2021). Epidemiological trends and geographic variation in hospital admissions for diverticulitis in the United States. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 116(9), 1932-1942.

Strate, L. L., & Morris, A. M. (2019). Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Treatment of Diverticulitis. Gastroenterology, 156(5), 1282-1298.

Strate, L. L., et al. (2022). Physical activity and risk of diverticulitis. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 117(11), 1843-1852.

Tursi, A., et al. (2019). Role of probiotics in diverticular disease: A systematic review of evidence. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 25(36), 5532-5543.