Diverticulitis: Home Treatment

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Home Treatment

Home treatment may help you control symptoms of diverticulitis or reduce the chance of having additional attacks of diverticulitis.

To reduce abdominal pain caused by mild diverticulitis:

• Apply a heating pad to your abdomen to relieve mild cramps and pain.
• Try relaxation techniques (such as slow, deep breathing in a quiet room or meditation) to help reduce mild pain.
• Use a nonprescription pain medicine such as acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol).
• If these techniques do not help and your pain increases, call your doctor to see whether prescription pain medicine is needed.

To reduce problems with bowel movements:

• Eat a high-fiber diet. Whole-grain breads and cereals, brown rice, and fresh fruits and vegetables can all be part of a high-fiber diet.
• Practice healthy bowel habits, such as eating at regular times, not straining during a bowel movement, and getting plenty of fluids each day.
• Try not to rely on laxatives to have regular bowel movements.

Last updated:	July 30, 2008
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC