Diverticulosis medical therapy
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Medical Therapy
Often no treatment is needed. Increases in hydration, increasing fiber content in the diet[1] (the American Dietetic Association recommends 20-35 grams each day), or removing factors resulting in constipation help decrease the incidence of new diverticula or possibly keep them from bursting or becoming inflamed. Fiber supplements may aid if diet is inadequate. If the diverticula are unusually large (greater than 1 inch), often infected (see diverticulitis), or exhibit uncontrollable bleeding, surgery can be performed to decrease relapse or other complications. The NIDDK says foods such as nuts, popcorn hulls, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, caraway seeds, and sesame seeds have traditionally been labeled as problem foods for people with this condition;[2] however, no scientific data exists to prove this hypothesis. The seeds in tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, strawberries, raspberries, and poppy seeds, are not considered harmful by the NIDDK. Treatments, like some colon cleansers, that cause hard stools, constipation, and straining, are not recommended.
References
- ↑ Eglash A, Lane CH, Schneider DM (2006). "Clinical inquiries. What is the most beneficial diet for patients with diverticulosis?". The Journal of family practice. 55 (9): 813–5. PMID 16948968.
- ↑ "Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis". Retrieved 2007-11-19.