What Is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis occurs when one or more small pouches (diverticula) that form in the walls of the colon become inflamed or infected. These pouches, known as diverticula, develop when weak spots in the colon wall bulge outward under pressure — a condition called diverticulosis. While diverticulosis is often asymptomatic, diverticulitis causes significant pain and complications.
Diverticulosis is extremely common, affecting more than 50% of Americans over age 60. Approximately 10-25% of people with diverticulosis will develop diverticulitis at some point. The condition most commonly affects the sigmoid colon (the lower left portion of the large intestine), which is why left-sided abdominal pain is the hallmark symptom.
At Dr. Jing Tong Gastroenterology in Flushing, NY, we provide comprehensive management of diverticular disease, from initial diagnosis through treatment and long-term prevention. Dr. Tong's training at Johns Hopkins and expertise in therapeutic endoscopy ensure patients receive the most advanced care available.
Symptoms of Diverticulitis
Left-Sided Abdominal Pain
Fever & Chills
Nausea & Vomiting
Changes in Bowel Habits
Bloating
Tenderness to Touch
Treatment Approach
Antibiotic Therapy
Uncomplicated diverticulitis is typically treated with oral antibiotics (commonly a combination of ciprofloxacin and metronidazole, or amoxicillin-clavulanate), along with a temporary clear liquid or low-fiber diet to rest the bowel. Most patients improve within 2-3 days.
Complicated Diverticulitis Management
Severe cases involving abscess formation, perforation, fistula, or obstruction may require hospitalization with IV antibiotics, CT-guided drainage of abscesses, or surgical consultation. Dr. Tong coordinates comprehensive care for complex presentations.
Prevention & Long-Term Management
After recovery, Dr. Tong develops a prevention plan including a high-fiber diet (25-35g daily), adequate hydration, regular exercise, and weight management. Contrary to outdated advice, current evidence shows that nuts, seeds, and popcorn do not increase diverticulitis risk.
Follow-Up Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is typically recommended 6-8 weeks after a diverticulitis episode to evaluate the extent of diverticulosis and rule out other conditions, including colorectal cancer, which can present with similar symptoms. Dr. Tong's endoscopic expertise ensures thorough evaluation.
Why Choose Dr. Jing Tong?
Johns Hopkins Trained
Evidence-based approach to diverticular disease management from a top medical institution.
Therapeutic Endoscopy
Advanced colonoscopy for thorough evaluation and management of diverticular complications.
Multilingual Care
Clear communication in Mandarin, Shanghainese, and English for comprehensive care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between diverticulosis and diverticulitis?
Diverticulosis refers to the presence of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall, which is very common and usually harmless. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected, causing pain, fever, and other symptoms requiring treatment.
Can I eat nuts and seeds with diverticulosis?
Yes. The old advice to avoid nuts, seeds, and popcorn has been debunked by large studies. These foods do not increase diverticulitis risk and may actually be protective due to their fiber content. A high-fiber diet is the most important dietary recommendation.
Will diverticulitis recur?
Approximately 20-35% of patients experience a recurrence of diverticulitis. However, a high-fiber diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking significantly reduce recurrence risk. Dr. Tong develops personalized prevention plans for each patient.
When is surgery needed for diverticulitis?
Surgery may be recommended for complicated diverticulitis (perforation, large abscess, fistula, obstruction) or for recurrent episodes that significantly impact quality of life. Most cases of uncomplicated diverticulitis can be managed medically without surgery.
Why do I need a colonoscopy after diverticulitis?
A follow-up colonoscopy (usually 6-8 weeks after the episode) is important to confirm the diverticulosis diagnosis, assess the extent of disease, and rule out colorectal cancer or other conditions that may mimic diverticulitis symptoms.
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Proper management prevents complications. Schedule your consultation at our Flushing office.