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Diverticulitis

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What is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a condition that develops when diverticula, which are small pouches in the intestine, become inflamed or infected. It is not unusual for people to have diverticula, especially after the age of 40. In most cases, diverticula do not cause any problems, but when diverticulitis develops as a result of inflammation or infection, people will experience uncomfortable symptoms.

What are symptoms of diverticulitis?

Since diverticulitis affects the intestines, it causes symptoms associated with gastrointestinal distress. Common symptoms of diverticulitis include:

  • Pain, typically in the lower left portion of the abdomen
  • Fever
  • Tenderness in the abdomen
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • In some cases, diarrhea

With symptoms of diverticulitis, abdominal pain may be constant and last for several days. Unexplained, persistent abdominal pain is a sign that you should seek medical treatment.

What causes diverticulitis?

According to experts, diverticula develop when pressure causes weak spots in the colon to give way. When these diverticula tear, it results in inflammation, and in some cases infection, leading to diverticulitis.

There are some risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing diverticulitis:

  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Lack of exercise
  • Being of older age
  • Taking certain medications, such as steroids or opioids
  • Eating a diet that is high in fat and low in fiber

How serious is diverticulitis?

In about 25% of cases, diverticulitis can cause complications. For instance, some people may develop abscesses, from pus collecting in the diverticula. Diverticulitis can also cause a blockage in the bowels as a result of scarring.

Another complication of diverticulitis is the development of a fistula, or an abnormal connection, between the bowel and other areas of the body.

In serious cases, diverticulitis can lead to peritonitis, which occurs when the diverticula rupture, causing material from the intestines to leak into the abdominal cavity. Peritonitis is considered a medical emergency.

What is the treatment for diverticulitis?

The treatment for diverticulitis will depend upon the severity of the condition. If you have a mild case, you can likely recover at home. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat diverticulitis, but sometimes, the condition will go away on its own without medication. A doctor is likely to recommend a liquid diet until symptoms of diverticulitis improve.

More serious cases of diverticulitis are likely to require hospitalization to treat the condition. During a hospital stay, treatment for diverticulitis includes intravenous antibiotics, as well as a tube to drain the fluid from an abscess, if one has developed.

For people who have recurrent cases of diverticulitis, a weakened immune system, or complications like a bowel obstruction, surgery may be necessary to treat diverticulitis.

You can reduce your risk of diverticulitis and related complications by getting plenty of exercise and eating a diet that contains adequate amounts of fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is also important to drink plenty of water and to avoid smoking.

Applicable Procedures

Colonoscopy

How serious is diverticulitis?

In about 25% of cases, people will suffer from complications with diverticulitis. These can include the development of abscesses, a bowel blockage, or an abnormal connection between the bowel and other body parts. In rare cases, it can cause a rupture called peritonitis, which is potentially life-threatening.

Are there ways to prevent diverticulitis?

You can reduce your risk of diverticulitis by practicing healthy lifestyle habits, such as avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, getting plenty of exercise, and getting enough fiber in your diet.

What is the treatment for diverticulitis?

Treatment will vary based upon the severity of the condition. Some people may not need any treatment, whereas others will need to take antibiotics or follow a liquid diet. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Common Symptoms

  • “I sometimes suffer from stomach pain that is constant and lasts for days at a time.”
  • “My stomach is tender to the touch, and I get pain in the lower left area of my belly.”
  • “I have been experiencing nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting along with a slight fever.”

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What They Are Saying

Excellent
Center For Digestive Health, Rochester Hills4.8
Based on 6226 reviews
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Angela B.
It was a pleasant experience that could have not. Everyone was very kind and caring.
B G.
Good news always makes a visit with a doctor much easier to take. But even if/when the news might not be so good, I can't imagine Dr. Wille being anything other than the kindest, gentlest, sweetest and most thoughtful doctor you'd ever want. I am so incredibly grateful for his care. His assistant, Chris, is also very good at his part in Dr. Wille's care. Thanks to all of CDH for being so good at what they do.
Robert H.
I was able to get in quickly and everyone there was friendly and professional.
apl2man
on time, efficient, very friendly, caring, knowledgeable, helpful
Mike W.
Excellent with great people
Kathy H.
Staff was incredible from check in throughout procedure. Answered all questions
Kristen B.
I’ve been a patient for years and the care I’ve received has always been wonderful. They are knowledgeable and compassionate and take time with patients.
Peter P.
Dr Weber is a class act and a super physician. I found the supporting staff to be competent, efficient and helpful as well.
Richard D.
Dr Q is awesome. He’s friendly, knowledgeable and cares about his patients
sherie H.
Very professional and answered all my questions. It was a telemedicine appt.
Susan K.
Taken care of right on time. Everyone involved was exceptionally nice. It was all very quick and efficient.
Wayne K.
Chris, the nurse, Dr. Weber, and the check out lady were all outstanding to work with and had great personalities. I got my medical issue fixed in no time with the doctor. Thank you and I will be happy to come back another time.
Joseph F.
Other than the prep, it was an easy and non intrusive experience. Very polite and well trained staff.
Sam G.
From the moment I walked in the door, I felt taken care of. The entire staff is very professional and the doctors are top notch. I’ve been a patient for 25 years and have always had a positive experience. Health care is challenging these days. This office does not disappoint. I highly recommend!!
Susan G.
I went in for a endoscope to the clinic in Macomb. The facility looks new and is extremely clean. The register and nurses were pleasant, professional, and knowledge. The procedure was done by Dr. Quaillich. I have complete confidence in his ability. The anesthesiologist explained the procedure and the tech was helpful. The aftercare nurse is informative and caring. I recommend Dr Quaillich and the Center for Digestive Health.
Nalisa F.
I received optimum care from the receptionist to my departure care nurse. I totally love and trust Dr. Bakken as she gave me comfort before and after my procedure. This was a calming experience that I will never forget. Thank you all, especially Roger!
Caroline M.
Very pleased with the professional atmosphere in the office from the front desk to meeting with Dr. Willie. Always a positive and good experience!
Heidi H.
Professional, Kind, Caring, Thorough with a great bedside manner!
Dan J.
The staff was courteous and professional! I have been very satisfied with both Dr.Tocco and Dr.Abidir.
Doreen P.
Everyone was very kind and professional.
Gerardo R.
I've been cared for by Dr. Bologna for over 27 years. My colonoscopy procedure went nice and quick, and the care of the whole team is fenomenal.
Natalie G.
Super fast and organized
Edward M.
My visit went very well. The RN Michelle was very nice and courteous. She was very polite and her conversation was great. Dr Weber of course was very professional. He does a very good job keeping me up to date with my medical reports. The anesthesiologist was very kind as well. Very good appointment, in and out.
Traci T.
I have been a patient of Dr. Donat's since 2017 and I always have positive experiences with him and the staff!!! Dr. Donaat explains health conditions clearly and always provides proactive next steps for improved health. I truly appreciated the follow up call days after my procedure to ensure I was recovering well!!!
gwendolyn J.
Dr. Donat and his team are the best. Great treatment and nice attitudes from start to finish!!!
The Center for Digestive Health4.8
Based on 6231 reviews
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Florence P.
Having the opportunity for a telemedicine appointment is so valuable! It saved me travel time, time away from work, gas, and hassle! Thank you for investing in the technology to make life better for your patients! Seeing Dr. Quallich face-to-face was reassuring and was the same as seeing him in person. We covered all the concerns that I had and have a good plan of action. I received a call before my appointment checking on all my meds and also received a text msg with a link for our appointment. Hats off to your entire team on orchestrating such a great and professional job! As always, Dr. Quallich, you are an awesome and caring doctor! Your compassion for your patients is comforting! Thank you!
Henry W.
Friendly, professional service before, during and after the procedure. Couldn’t have been any easier.
Emeel A.
Professionally and efficient. Whole procedure with checkin and checkout lasted 1 hour and 15 minutes
Teresa H.
Staff was very nice, the Dr Bakken was very knowledgeable. And seem to have idea of how to care for my problems. Look forward to my next visit.

Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, please visit our providers page.

Amir Abadir MD, FRCPC

Anezi E. Bakken MD, MS

Sante D. Bologna MD, FACP

M. Emin Donat MD, FRCPC

Partha S. Nandi

Jack Tocco DO

John R. Weber MD

Richard T. Wille MD

Tusar Desai MD

Aalia Saeed, MD

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?
If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.
What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?

An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If a physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.

How do I get test results?

We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised. 

What insurances do you accept?

We accept payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 248-844-9710.

What if I need to contact the doctor?

To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 248-844-9710. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours, you will be rerouted to our after hours answering service, and your doctor will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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