Can you use an enema with diverticulitis?
Can you use an enema with diverticulitis?
People who have diverticulosis without symptoms or complications do not need specific treatment, yet it is important to adopt a high-fiber diet to prevent the further formation of diverticula. Laxatives should not be used to treat diverticulosis and enemas should also be avoided or used infrequently.
How do you have a bowel movement with diverticulitis?
People with diverticulosis who do not have symptoms do not need treatment.
- Increase fiber to add bulk to the stool — Fiber can help to bulk up your stool.
- Take fiber supplements — You can take fiber supplements like Metamucil, Citrucel or Benefiber to bulk up your stool.
Is it OK to take a laxative with diverticulitis?
If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics. Do not use laxatives or enemas unless your doctor tells you to use them.
What laxative is best for diverticulitis?
Prunes, prune juice, and psyllium seed are all good natural laxatives. Specially formulated teas to fight constipation are available in health food stores, but some may be very strong, so use them only as directed.
What should you not do if you have diverticulitis?
In the past, doctors had recommended that people with diverticular disease (diverticulosis or diverticulitis) avoid hard-to-digest foods such as nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds, for fear that these foods would get stuck in the diverticula and lead to inflammation.
Can you have constipation with diverticulitis?
You can have diverticulosis and not have any pain or symptoms. But symptoms may include mild cramps, swelling or bloating, and constipation.
How do you calm down a diverticulitis flare-up?
Consume a liquid diet or low-fiber diet until your flare-up improves. Rest as needed. Sometimes, doctors recommend surgery for people with more serious flare-ups or recurrent diverticulitis. Surgical removal of the affected portion of the colon (and the infected or inflamed diverticula) should resolve the problem.
Will an enema help a bowel obstruction?
Enemas of air or fluid can help clear blockages by raising the pressure inside your bowels. A mesh tube called a stent is a safe option for people who are too sick for surgery. Your doctor puts it in your intestine to force the bowel open. Some people may not need anything more than a stent.
