Diverticulitis and colectomy

Just found the group which is weird I used to consult for Mayo and never thought to look here for DV help (retired 8 years ago). So my story is I was told I have a redundant colon 4 years ago at a colonoscopy. Then 2 years ago while Xmas shopping I got hit with the lower left pain so mhard I couldn’t get to my car. 30 minutes on a bench and I felt ok, then 9 months later it’s back and I’m in ER. CT scan and I’m told I have DV. I’ve had three flares since and I’m still trying to find the right balance of diet. It’s really messed up my life.

Good morning, @geronimo1

Yes, your flare-ups sound very typical. I suppose your doctors have told you to avoid constipation as this can cause a flare-up. Perhaps you have found foods that also will trigger a flare-up. Each of us is different as to what we do to avoid a flare-up or to ease a flare-up when it begins.

Here is some info from the Mayo Clinic website, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diverticulitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371758. As you can see, avoiding constipation by drinking lots of fluids and getting exercise is very helpful

Do you walk or have another exercise program in place, @geronimo1 ?

Hello @musicflowers4u
Yes, here is the link to the NETs/Carcinoid discussion groups.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/neuroendocrine-tumors-nets/?tab=discussions

I’ve been getting flare ups for about 6 years. It started in the bottom left hand corner but is now along the left side. I’ve had 3 colonoscopies and been in hospital a couple of times. The drs usually put me on antibiotics and pain relief and get me to have nil by mouth at first. Gradually introducing fluids and then soft foods.
Yes it is painful and usually lasts for 5 days

Is there a Carcinoid Cancer segment I could be connected to?

Hello @geronimo1

Welcome to Mayo Connect. If you have started reading some of the posts in this discussion, you will see that many of us have had flare-ups of diverticulitis for many years. This can be a very painful disorder and really disrupts normal life activities. can't it?

During a flare-up, it is important to eat a very soft diet (maybe even a liquid diet at the beginning) and then soft foods like scrambled eggs, applesauce, mashed potatoes and of course lots of liquids. I have personally found that staying off my feet and using a heating pad on my abdomen helps with the symptoms.

Please share with us how long you have had these flare-ups and what you do when you experience the pain. Also, have you consulted with a doctor? If so, what were your doctor's recommendations?

Hello @beckaj

How are you feeling with your diverticulitis? Have you found a diet plan that helps you with your symptoms?

Hi @geronimo1 you may have noticed I moved your post to this existing discussion on diverticulitis so that you can connect with others with this condition. Simply click VIEW AND REPLY in your email notification to get to your post.

I also wanted to introduce you to fellow Connect members @rubbob1 @happyat76 and @hopeful33250 as they have experience with diverticulitis and may be able to offer you support.

Back to you @geronimo1 how long have you been having these flareups?

Anyone on here suffer with Diverticulitis flare ups?

Recently diagnosed with Diverticulitis but starting to feel better. Did 3 day clear diet , soft/bland foods, and now low fiber . Frustrated with what to eat. So much contradictory info out there, eat seeds/don't eat seeds, eat nuts/don't eat nuts, eat lots of veggies/don't eat raw veggies.... I also have IBS symptoms and don't do well with dairy. Any advice ?

<p>E.R ... Herniated bowel surgery, 2nd. twice.. E.R. Diverticulitis issues, Laxatives used twice in E.R... Lost 30 lbs. over 4-5 months!!... 3 morphine injections over 5 months..plus fentanyl for pain, , X-rays of hip and shoulder show, no problem!! X-Rays Dr. choice!! I suggested M.R.I. Not my choice!! I find my muscles are sore, 3-5 and somewhat weakened, to the point I can't lay on my side or back without awakening many times thru the night. Can't lift over 10 lbs. Sleep depravation has become a problem plus "pain and stress" issue. Been going on for near 8-9 months! Doctors no help!!. (Treat 1 thing at a time)!!.. Cortisone injection in hip short term relief..4-6 weeks. Muscle atrophy, may be an issue after little muscle use for months. Plus muscle diseases??.. Suggested!!! Not my call??? age..87.. Lidocaine patches a "PAIN" to use at night... Changed Dr. Nothing same treatment. I'm patient?!?!.. Right now I've tied a knot on the end of the rope and am hanging on!! Went to E.R.!?!?..Not an E.R. issue!!! Not a gunshot wound!! Told "Too many Issues and I'm 87"!?!?…. 5 Prednisone? tabs + morphine inj... Released! Go see Dr...???</p>