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Is Lower Abdominal Pain A Symptom Of Diverticulitis?

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Posted on Mon, 11 Jan 2016
Question: I had a colectomy in 2013 - just had my first reoccurrence of diverticulitis
My gi put me on avelox for 14 days
On day 8 and most of my symptoms have gone away except for slight pain in lower left side of intestines
Hoping it is just IBS have taken several bentyl with some relief
My bowel movements have returned to normal
Could this dull ache really be unresolved diverticulitis?
I'm so scared I may have to have more surgery
I just started a new job and don't have sick time
I'm also concerned that I may be at a point where a colostomy may be needed
Please help - I'm scared to death
doctor
Answered by Dr. T Chandrakant (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
CT scan and colonoscopy will confirm.

Detailed Answer:
Hi.
Thanks for your query and an elucidate history in chronology.
Noted your history of partial colectomy in 2013, first re-occurrence of diverticulitis, your GI putting on Avelox for 14 days, almost complete relief within 8 days, where only slight pain in lower left side remained. Bentyl would anyways help in any of the conditions, whether IBS or Colitis.
Also noted that bowel movements have returned to normal, yet so much scared of unresolved diverticulitis, more surgery, no sick time in the new job, and chance of colostomy.

I can understand your points of thinking.
But have some thinking as follows:
The surgery could have been more extensive if they would have found on diverticuli on exploration. Since your history says only 6 inches was removed, this could have been a very well limited to the same spot or area.

Colonoscopy at an appropriate time and CT scan of the abdomen will confirm the diagnosis and the guide for the further treatment if required.
Do not be scared.
Follow the perfect diet plan, avoid constipation.
Take plenty of oral fluids and instruction of your Doctor and the Dietitian.

I hope this answers your query, please feel free to ask for further relevant queries if you feel that there is a gap of communication.


Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. T Chandrakant (7 minutes later)
I just had a ct scan about two weeks ago which showed mild diverticulitis
Colonoscopy two years ago showed diffuse diverticulosis
My GI does not feel the need to do another colonoscopy at this time
Could my vague lower right abdominal pain be just IBS
I'm so scared I will need further surgery and possibly colostomy
Can't take time off from work
Any other thoughts please
doctor
Answered by Dr. T Chandrakant (34 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Take proper care and medicines

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your feedback.
The CT scan and colonoscopy in the past have shown this to be diverticulitis. Colonoscopy be best avoided in acute problems.
This is not IBS since the diagnosis has already been done.
You are getting the right medicines, continue it, ass probiotics, take only those foods that suit your bowel. No outside foods and beverages, only home-made foods; no junk food at all.
Make a list of the foods and beverages that suit you the most and take these only.

There are many cases of known diverticulosis (not itis- means inflammation) found incidentally on investigations and not had any attack anytime in life. Hence be optimistic and take proper care and treatment and you may not need surgery.

I hope this answer helps you.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. T Chandrakant

General Surgeon

Practicing since :1984

Answered : 19780 Questions

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Is Lower Abdominal Pain A Symptom Of Diverticulitis?

Brief Answer: CT scan and colonoscopy will confirm. Detailed Answer: Hi. Thanks for your query and an elucidate history in chronology. Noted your history of partial colectomy in 2013, first re-occurrence of diverticulitis, your GI putting on Avelox for 14 days, almost complete relief within 8 days, where only slight pain in lower left side remained. Bentyl would anyways help in any of the conditions, whether IBS or Colitis. Also noted that bowel movements have returned to normal, yet so much scared of unresolved diverticulitis, more surgery, no sick time in the new job, and chance of colostomy. I can understand your points of thinking. But have some thinking as follows: The surgery could have been more extensive if they would have found on diverticuli on exploration. Since your history says only 6 inches was removed, this could have been a very well limited to the same spot or area. Colonoscopy at an appropriate time and CT scan of the abdomen will confirm the diagnosis and the guide for the further treatment if required. Do not be scared. Follow the perfect diet plan, avoid constipation. Take plenty of oral fluids and instruction of your Doctor and the Dietitian. I hope this answers your query, please feel free to ask for further relevant queries if you feel that there is a gap of communication.