How to Overcome Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is an extremely painful and dangerous infection in a patient's colon. Sacs or pockets form in the colon, caused by constipation or weakening of the colon itself. When these sacs or pockets become infected or rupture, the patient suffers extreme pain; if the bacteria leaks into the colon walls, the condition can even be life-threatening. Symptoms include nausea, abdominal pain, constipation and vomiting, as well as flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills. While you should always see a doctor for serious medical conditions such as diverticulitis, there are some in-home solutions to ease the effects of the disease.

Things You'll Need

• High-fiber foods
• Fiber supplement

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Instructions

• 1

  Increase the fiber in your diet by eating foods that are high in fiber. These include grains, vegetables and fruits. More fiber will assist the regular flow of waste through your colon and help to prevent any sacs or pockets from becoming infected or rupturing.

• 2

  Add a fiber supplement to your daily regime. Supplements such as Citrucel and Metamucil can be dissolved in water. Drink once per day to add an extra two to four grams of fiber to your diet.

• 3

  Change to a liquid diet for particularly painful or dangerous cases of diverticulitis. Consult with a doctor about proper foods to liquefy for your diet. A liquid diet will require less work from the colon, giving it time to heal or adjust and decreasing pain.