Discharge Instructions for Diverticulitis
You have been diagnosed with diverticulitis. This is a condition in which small pouches form in your colon (large intestine) and become inflamed or infected. Follow the guidelines below for home care.
As you recover
Eat a low-fiber diet. Your doctor may recommend a liquid diet. This gives your bowel a chance to rest so that it can recover.
Foods to include: flake cereal, mashed potatoes, pancakes, waffles, pasta, white bread, rice, applesauce, bananas, eggs, meat, fish, poultry, tofu, cooked vegetables
Take your medications as directed. dosees or stop taking the medications, even if you feel better.
Monitor your temperature and report any rising temperature to your doctor.
Take antibiotics exactly as directed. Do not miss any
Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water every day, unless directed otherwise.
Use a heating pad or hot water bottle to reduce abdominal cramping or pain.
Preventing diverticulitis in the future
Eat a high-fiber diet. Fiber adds bulk to the stool so that it passes through the large intestine more easily.
Keep drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water every day, unless directed otherwise.
Begin an exercise program. Ask your doctor how to get started. You can benefit from simple activities such as walking or gardening.
Treat diarrhea with a bland diet. Start with liquids only; then slowly add fiber over time.
Watch for changes in your bowel movements (constipation to diarrhea).
Get plenty of rest and sleep.
Follow-up care
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to call your doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following:
Fever above 100°F (37.7°C)
Chills
Severe cramps in the abdomen, most commonly the lower left side
Tenderness in the abdomen, most commonly the lower left side
Nausea and vomiting
Bleeding from your rectum