Diverticulitis

Jules E Garbus, MD Our Services Diverticulitis
Jules E Garbus, MD - - Colorectal Surgeon

Jules E Garbus, MD

Colorectal Surgeon located in Garden City, NY & Queens, Forest Hills, NY

In the United States alone, as many as 200,000 people are hospitalized each year for diverticulitis complications. If you’re experiencing chronic abdominal pain, serious constipation, or blood in your stool, contact the office of Jules Garbus MD PC in Forest Hills, Queens and Garden City, New York, right away. Click on the online scheduler, or call the office nearest you directly to schedule your diverticulitis exam.

Diverticulitis Q & A

What is diverticulitis?

It’s common to develop diverticula, which are tiny, bulging pouches in your lower colon (sigmoid colon), especially after the age of 40. In most cases though, diverticula don’t cause problems. But occasionally, waste gets stuck in the pouches, and they become inflamed or infected. 

This inflammation is known as diverticulosis. Once you start experiencing symptoms — not everyone does — the condition is known as diverticular disease or simply, diverticulitis.

Are there symptoms of diverticulitis?

As your condition worsens, you may start experiencing some symptoms. But the symptoms each patient experiences with diverticulitis can vary drastically. Dr. Garbus finds that the following issues are most common:

  • Occasional diarrhea 
  • Chronic constipation
  • Abdominal tenderness 
  • Rectal bleeding or blood in your stools
  • Nausea, vomiting, or fever (if an infection is present)

If left untreated, diverticulitis may lead to serious complications. For instance, you can develop an abscess in your bowels or even a perforation. Because diverticulitis can lead to so many problems, it’s important to come in to the office of Jules Garbus MD PC if you’re experiencing any of these issues or if you know you have a history of diverticulitis. 

What is the treatment for diverticulitis?

Dr. Garbus performs a comprehensive exam and discusses all of your symptoms with you. He may order laboratory testing, such as a blood draw or urinalysis, as well as a CT scan or stool test. Once Dr. Garbus confirms your diagnosis and rules out related issues, he talks with you about diverticulitis treatment options, which may include:

  • Oral antibiotics 
  • Pain relievers
  • Temporary liquid diet 

Though these conservative diverticulitis treatments may help for minor issues, they aren’t likely enough for complex diverticulitis issues. For more advanced stages of diverticulitis, Dr. Garbus may recommend:

  • Intravenous antibiotics
  • Procedure to drain an abscess
  • Bowel resection surgery

No matter which treatment is right for you, Dr. Garbus walks you through every stage of your care. He’s diligent about ensuring you’re involved in every decision making step throughout your diverticulitis treatment plan.  

If you have a history of diverticulitis, contact the office of Jules Garbus MD PC today. You can conveniently schedule an exam through the website or over the phone with either office. 

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