If you have a tough time eating enough of these foods you can also try products like Citrucel or Metamucil once a day. You should try and take in at least 20 grams of fiber per day, but 40-50 grams is preferred. Avoid using enemas or laxatives frequently since this can actually make your diverticulosis worse. The best method of treatment for diverticulosis is a high fiber diet and that depends mainly on you, the patient. Sometimes, though, this is not enough and a visit to the doctor s office, or even hospital, is needed.
Painful diverticulosis can result when the intestines undergo painful cramps or spasms.
Unfortunately, the stronger medicines can also have increasing number of side effects like dry mouth, dry eyes and rapid heartbeat. If diverticulitis develops then you may have to take a course of antibiotics and decrease the amount of fiber in your diet until the symptoms clear up. If you continue to have frequent or severe attacks, then surgery may be advised. This surgery may also be required if the diverticulum bleeds persistently, if the inflamed diverticulum ruptures, if infection spreads to surrounding organs in the abdomen or if excess scar tissue either partially or completely blocks emptying of the colon. You can ask your family physician if you have specific questions about diverticulosis or you can visit your local library for more information.