What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis refers to a condition in your colon. Essentially, small pouches develop in the wall of your colon and then become infected. The infection of the pouches is the condition and it may cause severe pain and discomfort in your abdominal region. When you discuss the pain with a doctor at Clear Lake City Healthcare Professionals, we may recommend tests for the condition to address the pain and identify the specific areas with an infection.
Does it Cause Colon Cancer?
Although diverticulitis does not cause colon cancer, it may have similar symptoms to the cancer. Due to the similarities, a medical professional may recommend a test to ensure that you do not have colon cancer if you discuss certain symptoms that are shared between both conditions.
The underlying cause of the condition is related to your diet. If you do not have enough fiber in your diet plan, then you have a higher risk of the condition because your body must work harder to push food through your system. At our clinic, we use diagnostic tools to identify when your symptoms stem from cancer and when it relates to an infection in the pouches lining the wall of your colon.
Does Colon Surgery Treat the Condition?
Colon surgery is not always necessary to treat diverticulitis, but it may be recommended if a medical professional identifies colon cancer or has specific concerns regarding the location of certain pouches in your colon. At our facility, we run several tests before recommending a treatment solution for the discomfort you experience.
We usually recommend adjustments to your diet for a higher fiber content. We may also suggest certain pain relievers to help with discomfort and pain. Surgical procedures are usually used as a last measure and may be recommended if you have colon cancer.
Treating diverticulitis depends on your situation, symptoms, and needs. At Clear Lake City Healthcare Professionals, we offer treatment after identifying the cause of your pain and the appropriate strategy for your long-term health.
