Symptom Finder - Treatment of Diverticulitis
DIVERTICULITIS
Acute:
1. Clear liquid p.o. for 24–48 hours.
2. Curtail physical activity.
3. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) suppository to evacuate rectum but no enemas.
4. If there is fever or symptoms persist after 48 hours add antibiotics in the form of ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg bid or 200–400 mg IV q12hrs.
5. Alternatively may give cefuroxime (Ceftin): 250–500 mg bid or 750 mg IV q6hrs.
6. Cover anaerobes with metronidazole (Flagyl): 500 mg tid or 500 mg q8hrs IV.
7. Consult surgeon or gastroenterologist for resistant cases or if you suspect perforation, abscess, significant obstruction, or bleeding.
Prophylaxis (after acute attack):
1. Psyllium (Metamucil) smooth texture: 1–2 teaspoons bid in glass
of water.
2. Lots of green leafy vegetables.
3. Avoid seeds.
4. Probiotics.
Acute:
1. Clear liquid p.o. for 24–48 hours.
2. Curtail physical activity.
3. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) suppository to evacuate rectum but no enemas.
4. If there is fever or symptoms persist after 48 hours add antibiotics in the form of ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg bid or 200–400 mg IV q12hrs.
5. Alternatively may give cefuroxime (Ceftin): 250–500 mg bid or 750 mg IV q6hrs.
6. Cover anaerobes with metronidazole (Flagyl): 500 mg tid or 500 mg q8hrs IV.
7. Consult surgeon or gastroenterologist for resistant cases or if you suspect perforation, abscess, significant obstruction, or bleeding.
Prophylaxis (after acute attack):
1. Psyllium (Metamucil) smooth texture: 1–2 teaspoons bid in glass
of water.
2. Lots of green leafy vegetables.
3. Avoid seeds.
4. Probiotics.