How Diverticulitis Can Slow Down the Regularity of Your Bowel Movements

Diverticulitis, a gastrointestinal condition that affects people of all ages, is an often overlooked culprit behind irregular bowel movements. With symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe complications, diverticulitis can significantly impact your quality of life. 

Anyone who is diagnosed with or has symptoms of diverticulitis should see a digestive specialist as part of their care team. At Premier Gastroenterology in Brooksville, Florida, digestive specialist Dr. Rodwan Hiba helps patients stay one step ahead of digestive issues like diverticulitis. 

While prevention is the best way to keep your digestive system healthy, there are ways to manage diverticulitis when it develops. A change in bowel habits is one of the signs of a digestive issue like diverticulitis.

Understanding diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches, known as diverticula, form in the lining of the digestive tract and become inflamed or infected. These pouches are most commonly found in the large intestine, where they can cause a range of digestive symptoms, including pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. 

Factors that put you most at risk of diverticulitis are a low-fiber diet, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Diverticulitis is also more common as you age.

How diverticulitis impacts bowel regularity

Diverticulitis can have a significant impact on bowel regularity. Inflammation from diverticulitis can narrow the passage in the colon, making it difficult for stool to pass through. This can result in constipation or diarrhea, depending on the severity of the inflammation.

It can also affect the muscles in the colon, causing decreased motility and impaired contractions, leading to slower movement of stool. When this happens it’s common to notice constipation and a general slowdown in bowel movements. 

Additionally, diverticulitis can alter the balance of gut bacteria, potentially leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. This can further disrupt bowel function, resulting in irregularity.

Guide to managing diverticulitis

When it comes to diverticulitis, seeking the help of a gastroenterologist is essential. As a specialist in diagnosing and treating digestive system disorders, Dr. Hiba possesses the expertise to manage diverticulitis effectively.

Diagnostic tools like colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, CT scans, and blood tests help to confirm diverticulitis. These tests not only help identify the extent of inflammation but also reveal any complications and guide the most appropriate course of treatment.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, Dr. Hiba may prescribe medications such as antibiotics to address the infection and associated inflammation.

Dr. Hiba may also suggest a temporary liquid or low-fiber diet during acute flare-ups to give your colon time to heal.

Lifestyle changes can help manage diverticulitis

For most patients, lifestyle changes are recommended as part of managing diverticulitis. The following changes can ease symptoms and prevent further problems:

Diet modifications

A high-fiber diet can help prevent the diverticula from forming and ease inflammation if you have diverticulitis. Gradually increase your fiber intake with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, and drink plenty of water to help soften stools and promote regularity.

Exercise

Regular physical activity can help improve colon motility, reduce inflammation, and promote overall gut health. A good goal is to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise at least five days a week. 

Stress management

Stress can exacerbate diverticulitis symptoms and negatively impact bowel function. Implement stress-reduction techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, to improve your overall well-being.

Monitoring is essential

Regular appointments with your gastroenterologist help track treatment progress, allowing for adjustments as needed. Monitoring provides guidance on preventative measures to reduce the risk of future diverticulitis episodes and maintain good digestive health.

In severe or recurrent cases where conservative treatments haven't been effective or complications arise, Dr. Hiba may recommend surgical intervention. Surgery could involve removing the affected part of the colon or draining an abscess caused by an infection. Rest assured, surgical options are typically reserved for situations in which other treatments have failed to adequately manage diverticulitis.

Top-quality digestive care

The Premier Gastroenterology team is here to help you manage diverticulitis and ease your symptoms so that you can get back to enjoying your life. For comprehensive digestive care, give us a call at 903-945-4512 today to schedule an in-person or telehealth visit at Premier Gastroenterology in Brooksville, Florida, with Dr. Hiba.