Colon Cleansing Program and Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis

After reading your forum and other colon related materials I believe I have diverticulosis. I have a constant dull pain in my lower left quandrant. My stool has been irregular in shape. My diet has been poor, especially over the holidays with many foods I would not ordinarily eat, such as wine, cheese, chocolate etc. Since the pain, I have increased my intake of fiber using Metamucil several times per day. After searching for more information I came across a Colon cleansing program that addresses cleasning of debris as well as parasites. My question is, if one has diverticulosis or diverticulitis would a program like I mentioned above be beneficial? Also, what are the differences in symptoms between diverticulosis and diverticulitis? Is the difference primarily increased pain due to infection? Also, could one have an infection without experiencing mucous in their stool, which I do not have. I am just trying to determine if my symptoms suggest infection and if so I will go to my doctor for an antibiotic. I am also interested in using the colon cleanse program but don't want to use it at the wrong time.

Thank you for your help.

Jill Phillips

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Diverticulosis doesn't necessarily cause pain - however, diverticulitis (which is a type of infection) can certainly lead to pain.  Diverticulosis can also bleed as well as being associated with bloating and cramping.  A CT scan can help evaluate this.

I have written about colon cleansing in the past:
kevinmd_b2004/10/colon-cleansing.html

There is no data to support its use, and it would not be recommended at this time.  

Yes, it is possible to have an infection without experiencing mucous in the stool.  

I would discuss these options with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[surgeon]

diverticulosis means having diverticula, which are little outpouchings in the colon. Over age 50 or so, probably close to half of people in the US have at least a few. It's usually, in and of itself, of little consequence and symptom-free. Diverticulitis is when a diverticulum is infected; that causes pain, fever, and can be anywhere from mild to very severe and dangerous. It's pretty-well agreed that the best treatment for diverticulosis and history of diverticulitis is a high-fiber diet, to avoid constipation and straining. Cleansing is the opposite of high-fiber. In addition, it's a totally bogus, unproven concept that cleans your wallet, provides a living for a lot of either well-meaning but deluded practitioners or outright charlatans, and provides no good for the patient. Other than that, it's great stuff.

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