Diverticular diseaseis a common condition that occurs as people age.
Outpouchings called diverticula develop in the colon but often dont cause symptoms.
When they become inflamed, however, they lead to pain, bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea.
simonkr / Getty Images
They work by blocking the enzymes in the body that control inflammation, among other body processes.
They can also have an effect on how blood clots.
Common brand names include the OTC NSAIDs Advil, Motrin, Aleve, and Naprosyn.
Prescription NSAIDs include Celebrex (celecoxib), Indocin (indomethacin), and meloxicam.
In some cases, however, prescription medications might be needed.
More often, medications are used to treat complicated diverticulitis.
This could take place either in the hospital or at home.
Antibiotics
When needed,antibioticsare prescribed for several days to about a week.
They may be used longer term if there is a need.
One or more antibiotics may be prescribed at the same time.
There are a few ways to ease pain or discomfort from diverticulitis without taking prescription drugs.
Acetaminophen
Tylenol (acetaminophen) might be recommended for pain.
Short courses of NSAIDs might be helpful and allowed for some people.
But it usually is necessary for those who have a history of bleeding or gastrointestinal problems to avoid them.
Diet
Aliquid dietor alow-fiber dietmight be recommended when diverticulitis symptoms start.
After two or three days, a healthcare provider might suggest adding more foods back into the diet.
This includes low-fiber foods at first and working up to ahigh-fiber diet.
Heating Pad
Using a heating pad is a way to relieve pain without resorting to medications.
Some people find applying heat to the abdomen will help with abdominal discomfort.
However, its a relatively low-cost and simple way to give a shot to cope with pain.
To avoid burns, follow the directions on the heating pad.
People shouldnt sleep on a heating pad or apply it directly to the skin.
Plus, it should only be used for the recommended amount of time listed in the safety instructions.
This is true even if it is not the first time the diverticulitis has flared up.
Adiagnosisis important to ensure that there are no complications and to confirm that you indeed have diverticulitis.
The symptoms are so similar to many other digestive conditions that those other causes should be ruled out.
Both over-the-counter and prescription drugs also may have an impact on the development of diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis used to be treated with antibiotics.
It has been shown that antibiotics are not always helpful and are reserved for when they clearly are needed.
Pain medications can help, but its important to discuss which ones to use with a healthcare provider.
People who are concerned that they may develop diverticulitis should talk to a healthcare provider about their risk.
Strate LL, Morris AM.Epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of diverticulitis.Gastroenterology.
