Diverticulitis
Over 20 Years of Experience With Diverticulitis Surgery
At the office of Dr. Eric Haas, we provide patients throughout Houston, TX and the surrounding areas with diverticulitis treatment. We offer innovative laparoscopic and robotic surgery to treat patients suffering from diverticulitis and other colon and rectal diseases. With more than 20 years of experience serving the colon-related needs of patients throughout our community, we have built a reputation of expertise, trust, and compassion. Visit our office today for the best in diverticulitis care.
What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulosis is a widespread disease, affecting nearly half of the population in the U.S. over the age of 60 and almost everyone over the age of 80. Diverticulitis occurs when the pouches in your intestines—called diverticula—become infected or inflamed. Diverticulitis can sometimes be minor, but it can also become severe if a massive infection or bowel perforation is present.
Understanding Diverticulitis
As we age, the inner walls of the intestines are prone to develop pouches known as diverticula. These pouches can form anywhere in the intestines, and having them is a condition known as diverticulosis. When these pockets become infected or inflamed, it is called diverticulitis. Chances of getting diverticulitis rise with age, and it’s most common for people over 40 years old to suffer the effects. Risk factors include obesity, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, eating a diet consisting of fat and red meat with little fiber, and consuming certain drugs, such as steroids, opioids, and anti-inflammatories.
Diverticulitis Vs. Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis is the presence of pouches known as diverticula in the colon. Most of the time, they won’t result in symptoms, nor will they require treatment. Diverticulosis, however, can lead to diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is the infection or inflammation in one or multiple diverticula.
The Symptoms of Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis symptoms can vary from person to person and depending on the severity. It’s not uncommon for some people to have the intestinal pouches called diverticula and not even know about them. Diverticula are usually painless and cause few symptoms if any. Having diverticula that don’t become infected or inflamed is common, so many individuals may not even be aware of their existence. People who have them may notice cramping on the left side of the abdomen that subsides after passing gas or a bowel movement. Bright red blood in stool is another common symptom. Diverticulitis symptoms are much more noticeable and are accompanied by severe pain, fever, and chills.
Diverticulitis Treatment
Some patients may be able to overcome flare-ups of diverticulitis with rest, a liquid diet, and antibiotics while giving the intestines a chance to heal. For more severe cases, we offer minimally-invasive surgery options using laparoscopic and robotic surgery methods. Both options allow for precise surgery in small areas for little disruption to the human bowels. Our team can drain an abscess of pus or remove affected areas of the colon to provide relief from this painful disease.
Contact Us Today for Diverticulitis Treatment
If you suffer from diverticulitis, the experts at the office of Dr. Eric Haas can help. Whether you require minimally-invasive surgery or just need to understand the best diet for diverticulitis, you can count on us to be in your corner every step. Contact us today to learn more about diverticulitis surgery in Houston or to schedule a consultation with one of our highly-experienced surgeons.