Mahaska Health Partnership Explains Diverticulitis

Mahaska Health Partnership

MAHASKA COUNTY – A common diagnoses for many men and women over the age of 40 is diverticulitis, and Mahaska Health Partnership wants you to know the signs and symptoms of this sometimes painful condition.

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, diverticulitis occurs when pouches on the inner lining of your intestines become inflamed or infected. While the exact cause of their irritation is uncertain, one of the likely causes can be a diet low in fiber.

“Without enough fiber in your diet, the colon has to work harder to push the stool forward,” explained MHP Family Practice physician Leigh Gilburn, DO. “When stool particles get trapped in your intestinal pouches, bacteria grows and can lead to painful irritation or infection.”

Symptoms of diverticulitis include severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea and constipation. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is best to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. Diverticulitis can be treated by changing your diet and taking antibiotics. In recurring or extreme cases, surgical treatments may be recommended.

“It is easy to test for diverticulitis with a simple blood test after examining a patient’s symptoms,” explained Dr. Gilburn. “Diverticulitis can be prevented by drinking plenty of water, getting regular exercise and sticking to a diet that is high in fiber to promote digestive health.”

If you are in need of a primary care provider, Dr. Gilburn is now accepting new patients on the MHP campus in Oskaloosa. To make an appointment, call 641.672.3360.

Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit www.mahaskahealth.org.