According to a 2019 study, diverticulitis is a prevalent and expensive gastrointestinal condition, most commonly affecting older adults. Diverticulitis develops as a complication of diverticulosis, a condition characterised by the formation of pouch-like sacs, called diverticula, in the colon's muscle layer.

When one or more of these diverticula become inflamed or infected, it can lead to symptoms like sharp abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, fever, and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea or constipation.

While diverticulitis often requires medical treatment, several self-care practices can help manage symptoms, especially during mild flare-ups. Here are some helpful tips:

During an acute diverticulitis episode, rest is essential. Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, or any activity that puts strain on your abdominal muscles. Stress and physical exertion can exacerbate symptoms, so focus on getting enough sleep and allowing your body time to heal. Resting helps reduce inflammation and manage pain more effectively.

During a diverticulitis flare-up, it’s often recommended to follow a low-fibre or soft diet. This approach can help ease the workload on your digestive system and give your inflamed colon a chance to heal. Start with easily digestible foods, such as clear broths, applesauce, cooked vegetables, and white rice. Once your symptoms improve, you can slowly reintroduce fibre-rich foods into your diet.

Drinking plenty of water is vital for managing diverticulitis. Adequate hydration helps prevent constipation, which can worsen symptoms. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and try to avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks, as they can irritate the digestive system. 

After the acute symptoms of diverticulitis have improved, it is essential to gradually increase your fibre intake to prevent future flare-ups. Fibre helps soften stool and promote regular bowel movements, which reduces strain on your colon. Aim to consume 25-30 grams of fibre each day, but introduce it slowly to avoid worsening symptoms.

You can ease diverticulitis discomfort by placing a heating pad or warm compress on your abdomen. Heat helps soothe the muscles, enhance blood flow, and alleviate inflammation. On the other hand, if you’re experiencing swelling or bloating, applying a cold compress may help alleviate discomfort.

Chronic stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues, including diverticulitis. Incorporating relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your daily routine can help reduce stress and support overall digestive health. A calm and relaxed body is better equipped to handle inflammation and pain.

In addition to self-care practices, several home remedies can help ease the pain and discomfort associated with diverticulitis:

Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and digestive aid. Drinking ginger tea can help reduce bloating, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. To prepare ginger tea, add fresh ginger slices to hot water and let it steep for a few minutes. Drinking it twice a day can offer relief and support digestion.

Probiotics are good bacteria that support a healthy balance of microorganisms in the digestive system. They can aid digestion and reduce inflammation in the colon. Adding probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables to your diet, or taking a high-quality probiotic supplement, may help manage diverticulitis symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.

Peppermint has natural antispasmodic properties that can relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing cramps and discomfort. Peppermint tea or peppermint oil capsules can be helpful for soothing stomach upset and bloating.

Slippery elm is an herbal treatment well known for its calming and soothing effects. It forms a gel-like substance that can coat and protect the digestive tract, easing inflammation and discomfort. You can take slippery elm in the form of capsules or as tea.

[ This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]