Diverticulitis is the inflammation of small pouches (diverticula) in the large intestine. This often causes sudden, severe abdominal pain, typically in the lower left side. This article outlines strategies, from home measures to prescription treatments, to quickly alleviate diverticulitis pain.
Immediate Comfort Measures
When diverticulitis pain strikes, non-pharmacological steps offer immediate comfort. Resting reduces strain on abdominal muscles and the inflamed colon, lessening pain. Applying warmth to the abdomen, such as a heating pad or warm bath, can soothe cramping.
Temporary dietary adjustments are beneficial during a flare-up, allowing the bowel to rest and heal. Healthcare providers often recommend a clear liquid diet for one to two days. This includes clear broths, pulp-free juices, water, and gelatin, which are easy to digest.
As symptoms improve, a low-fiber diet is typically introduced before gradually returning to regular eating patterns. This transitional diet includes soft, easily digestible foods like white rice, plain pasta, eggs, and cooked vegetables without skins or seeds. Reducing fiber intake during a flare-up decreases stool frequency and lessens pressure on the colon.
Over-the-Counter Options
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help manage diverticulitis pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally preferred for pain relief. It reduces pain and fever without irritating the gastrointestinal tract, making it suitable during a flare.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) are generally not recommended. NSAIDs increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and may worsen inflammation or lead to complications like bowel perforation.
Prescription Treatments
When home remedies and OTC options are insufficient, prescription treatments manage diverticulitis pain. Antibiotics are often prescribed to combat bacterial infections within inflamed diverticula. Common antibiotics include metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, or amoxicillin-clavulanate, often used in combination.
For muscle spasms contributing to pain, antispasmodic medications like dicyclomine (Bentyl) or hyoscyamine (NuLev) may be recommended. These drugs relax the colon’s smooth muscles, alleviating cramping. For severe pain unresponsive to other treatments, stronger pain medications, including short-term opioid analgesics, might be considered under strict medical supervision. However, opioids can cause constipation, potentially worsening diverticulitis symptoms.
When to Seek Professional Help
Recognizing when to seek immediate medical attention is important for diverticulitis pain. Certain symptoms indicate potential complications requiring urgent intervention. These include severe, sudden, or worsening abdominal pain that does not subside.
A persistent fever above 100.4°F (38°C), along with nausea or vomiting, warrants immediate medical evaluation. Blood in the stool or inability to keep liquids down are further warning signs. These symptoms could indicate serious complications such as an abscess, perforation, or fistula, requiring prompt medical care and potentially hospitalization or surgery.