Diverticulitis is a common condition that affects the colon, causing inflammation and discomfort for many individuals. Understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and proper care for diverticulitis is crucial for managing this condition effectively. In addition to traditional medical treatments, many individuals have found relief from diverticulitis symptoms through alternative therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathic remedies. This blog will provide comprehensive information on diverticulitis and explore the potential benefits of acupuncture and homeopathic remedies in managing this condition.

Definitionsof Diverticulitis

Causes and Risk Factors

Diverticulitis often develops when small pouches called diverticula form in the walls of the colon and become inflamed or infected. Common causes include a diet low in fiber, which can lead to constipation and increased pressure in the colon. Other risk factors include aging, obesity, lack of exercise, and smoking. Understanding these underlying causes and risk factors can aid in preventing diverticulitis and managing its symptoms effectively. In the next section, we will delve deeper into the symptoms of diverticulitis and how to differentiate them from other gastrointestinal conditions.

Diverticulitis appears to develop accidentally. However, diverticulosis may be inherited to some extent. Diverticulosis is not a congenital condition, but if you’re European or Asian in ancestry, there’s a higher chance that it will manifest in a certain area of your colon. Additionally, your genetic makeup may affect your risk of chronic inflammation. More investigation is required on this topic.

The risk factors for diverticulitis

The prevalence of diverticulitis is higher in those over 50. The following are other variables that raise the risk of diverticulitis:

Being overweight.
Smoking.
A low-fiber dietary diet.
A diet heavy in beef.
Excessive alcohol consumption.
Insufficient exercise.
Low amounts of vitamin D.

Some medications, such as naproxen sodium (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and other brands), include opioids, steroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Diverticulosis typically has no symptoms, although it can cause recurrent pain in the left lower quadrant. Constipation and diarrhea frequently accompany this pain and alternate with passing gas or feces to ease it. The similarity of symptoms to those of irritable bowel syndrome raises the possibility of a co-occurring condition.

Moderate lower abdomen pain, mild nausea, gas, irregular bowel movements, low-grade fever, and leukocytosis are all symptoms of mild diverticulitis.

Symptoms of diverticulitis can vary from mild to severe, including abdominal pain, bloating, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. However, it is crucial to differentiate these symptoms from other gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.

The discomfort will be the same whether you’re experiencing a chronic flare-up of diverticulitis or an acute episode. A chronic flare-up may develop over several days, whereas an acute episode may occur more rapidly. The pain should be easy to find in the exact location where inflammation has developed in your diverticulum. It could have a burning sensation or feel piercing and sharp. Usually, the pain ranges from mild to severe.

Symptoms

Diverticula typically develops in individuals of European ancestry in the sigmoid colon, the final section of the colon. This section starts on your lower left side and ends where your rectum is, slanting slightly to the right. This explains why most people with diverticulitis experience pain in the lower left quadrant of the abdomen. Periodically, lower abdomen pain might also radiate to your back or pelvis.

Diverticulitis in the upper right quadrant of the colon, the first segment of the colon, is more common in people of Asian heritage. This condition may result in upper abdominal pain.

In severe cases of diverticulitis, the diverticula can rupture and produce abscesses or peritonitis, which occurs in up to 20% of such patients.

Symptoms of rupture include abdominal rigidity and pain in the left lower quadrant. Peritonitis follows the release of fecal material from the rupture site and causes signs of sepsis and shock (high fever, chills, and hypotension). Rupture of the diverticulum near a vessel may cause microscopic or massive hemorrhage, depending on the vessel’s size.

A proper diagnosis often involves a physical exam, a medical history review, and diagnostic tests such as CT scans or colonoscopies. Seeking prompt medical attention when experiencing these symptoms is essential for an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

Traditional Treatment Options

When it comes to treating diverticulitis, conventional methods often include antibiotics to combat infection, a low-fiber diet to reduce inflammation, and pain medication for symptom management. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove affected parts of the colon. Patients are advised to adhere to their healthcare provider’s treatment plan and make necessary lifestyle adjustments to prevent recurrences. Alongside traditional medical interventions, complementary therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathic remedies can play a supportive role in addressing symptoms and supporting overall well-being. The following section will delve into the effectiveness and considerations of incorporating these alternative treatments into a comprehensive diverticulitis management plan.

Holistic treatment for diverticulitis

The holistic treatment for diverticulitis entails a complete evaluation to determine the possible underlying cause of the issue. The necessary testing, such as blood work, follows to identify any vitamin or mineral deficiencies, as well as any food sensitivities or allergies that might be impacting your digestive system.

You will have a thorough symptom intake with our naturopathic doctor, Dr. Victor Tsan, during your first one-on-one consultation at the clinic. After the visit, you may also be asked to complete some blood and urine testing. His evaluation is focused on identifying the obstacles that prevent your body from operating at its best. Dr. Tsan will decide which diagnostic instruments will be most useful in developing a plan of care tailored to your individual needs. Suppose additional specialized testing is required to obtain all the physiological data required and to obtain a more comprehensive picture of your symptoms. Integrative medicine practitioner Victor Tsan, MD, may order it to identify the underlying cause. You will schedule a follow-up appointment after this one when she will perform a comprehensive physical examination, a tongue and pulse diagnosis using traditional Chinese medicine, a body fat analysis, and a blood glucose test. Following a thorough review of your situation, she will provide a customized natural treatment plan based on your health objectives and the symptoms you are experiencing.

Diverticulitis can be effectively managed with holistic medicine. The following naturopathic advice can help you avoid diverticulitis:

Modify your eating habits to stop or lessen intestinal spasms, which can push feces into the diverticular pockets. Ask your naturopathic doctor for a food intolerance test to determine which foods you are sensitive to. Once the results are in, cut back on or eliminate the offending items. This will assist in lowering intestinal inflammation and enhancing many digestive problems, including bloating, flatulence, and the symptoms of IBS and IBD.

Make the shift to a high-fiber diet that prioritizes raw or minimally processed fruits and vegetables, whole-grain cereals, and breads. Diets high in fiber may not be ideal for everyone and can result in gas and bloating. Consult with your naturopathic physician before beginning a high-fiber diet.
For constipation, a lot of people also require a bulk laxative, like psyllium powder. Consult your naturopathic physician if you are experiencing constipation so they can determine the possible cause of the condition.
Avoid foods high in seeds, such as flaxseeds, raspberries, tomatoes, and corn, as they can clog pouches or diverticula and produce discomfort and irritation.
Maintain an optimal healthy weight by exercising regularly for at least 30 to 40 minutes three to four times a week.
Steer clear of alcohol, caffeine, carbonated drinks, and spicy, greasy, and hot foods.

Please see a naturopath or doctor before beginning any supplement regimen. Even though the aforementioned treatments have few side effects, it is still preferable to find the cause before treating it with the appropriate measures.

How Acupuncture can help with Diverticulitis

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, has been found to relieve diverticulitis symptoms. By targeting key meridian points related to digestive health, acupuncture can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve bowel function. Research suggests acupuncture may also help boost the immune system and promote overall wellness in individuals with diverticulitis. However, consulting a qualified acupuncturist experienced in treating gastrointestinal disorders is crucial to ensuring safe and effective treatment. In the upcoming section, we will explore the potential benefits and considerations of incorporating acupuncture into a comprehensive diverticulitis care plan.

Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine are great substitutes for treating diverticulitis. Pain and other symptoms of diverticulitis are believed to be exacerbated by inflammation, which is thought to occur whenever the body’s energy flow is blocked. If the discomfort is limited to a single spot, a blood clot is in the area. Decreasing blood flow is the main cause of geriatric disorders that affect the elderly, and the same applies to diverticulitis.

According to TCM theory, blocked blood vessels cause severe abdominal pain. Additionally, pathogenic energies like moisture, warmth, or cold may be the source of the pain. A weak spleen is another important element that TCM believes contributes to diverticulitis. Your spleen is responsible for converting food into energy. Diverticulitis causes discomfort and diarrhea symptoms because contaminants start to sink and accumulate in the lower body portion when it stops working properly.

According to TCM, the diagnosis is based on your pain and how it responds to pressure, food, activity, heat, and bowel movements. Your acupuncturist uses these hints to determine the condition’s cause and what is happening in your body. Your acupuncturist fixes your condition by restoring the balance your body has lost after the disorder’s underlying cause has been determined. Diverticulitis has many causes, depending on the individual. Furthermore, since six distinct forms of stomach discomfort can cause the illness, figuring out the exact cause is essential to treating it.

Your acupuncturist can treat diverticulitis symptoms like discomfort, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, inflammation, and bloating. You can improve your digestive and immunological systems and get them back to normal with the help of acupuncture and TCM. Because of your fortified colon and robust immune system, you may be sure the issue won’t return.

What an acupuncturist will do to treat your diverticulitis illness is as follows:

Reduce bacterial infection and alleviate pain in the belly by releasing pressure, also known as qi.
Cut down on inflammation to get rid of pain.
Release colonic qi to get rid of bloating.

Needless to say, acupuncture works wonders for diverticulitis. Still, it would be beneficial if you backed the treatment with changes to your way of life. You can stop the disease from reoccurring by ensuring that you have regular bowel movements and avoiding constipation or straining. Eating fiber-rich foods is necessary to induce bowel motions because it draws more water into the stool. This causes the feces to become soft and thick, facilitating simple passage through the colon. The following are some high-fiber foods you should consume:

Diets high in whole grains, such as barley, brown rice, pasta, and bread
Grains of brown rice
Cooked dried vegetables, such as carrots, beans, spinach, and broccoli

These diets reduce blood pressure and blood sugar, reduce the risk of digestive disorders, and prevent constipation.

There are other methods to avoid diverticulosis besides eating a diet high in fiber. Because fiber absorbs more water, drinking a lot of water frequently would be beneficial. You are urged to consume water daily to stay hydrated.

Certain diets can lead to gastrointestinal dysfunction, producing excessive heat or moisture and hindering energy and blood flow in internal organs, even if you increase your consumption of high-fiber meals and fluids. Diverticulitis is more likely to occur because all diets contain elements that might induce heat or cold. For this reason, you should discuss the optimal meals to eat to attain balance with your acupuncturist.

In addition, your acupuncturist will advise you to exercise frequently to prevent a sedentary lifestyle. You will have better digestion and a decreased risk of diverticulitis if you exercise for at least thirty minutes a day, as it facilitates the passage of food through the digestive tract.

Homeopathic Approach to Diverticulitis Treatment

Homeopathic remedies offer potential relief for diverticulitis symptoms by utilizing natural substances to stimulate the body’s self-healing mechanisms. Homeopathic treatments, along with herbal supplements, probiotics, and dietary changes, aim to address the root cause of inflammation and support digestive health. Common remedies like Aloe vera, Chamomile, and Peppermint have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the digestive tract. It’s essential to consult a certified homeopath before trying any homeopathic remedies to ensure they are appropriate for your specific condition and won’t interfere with other medications. The following section will delve deeper into the effectiveness and precautions associated with homeopathic remedies for managing diverticulitis.

The first homeopathic evaluation involves thorough history-taking to comprehensively understand the patient’s symptoms, medical background, and lifestyle. He will inquire about food habits, digestive issues, emotional state, sleep patterns, food habits, the type of pain, the frequency and duration of the symptoms, the aggravating and mitigating variables, and other pertinent information. This aids in the formation of the person’s unique profile.

Based on the information gathered, the homeopath will recommend a homeopathic medicine(s), considering the patient’s constitutional features and symptoms. The “similarity” principle—where the drug’s symptom profile matches the patient’s—is used to select the medication. Different homeopathic remedies can be considered based on each patient’s unique symptoms and features.

Following the homeopathic medicine prescription, he will arrange for routine follow-up appointments to assess the patient’s reaction to the treatment. These consultations could occur every few weeks or months, based on each person’s requirements. During these consultations, he will inquire about any changes in symptoms, side effects, mental health, and overall well-being. Given this knowledge, he may choose to switch to a different medicine or alter its potency.

One of the most widely used holistic medical approaches is homeopathy. Using a holistic approach, the notions of individualization and symptom similarity are used to guide remedy selection. This is the only method for eliminating all signs and symptoms that the patient is experiencing to restore their total health. Homeopathy aims to address the underlying cause and individual vulnerability of diverticular illnesses in addition to treating them. Regarding homeopathic medications, various options are accessible to treat diverticular diseases, which may be chosen based on the complaints’ modalities, causes, and symptoms.

Homeopathic treatments for diverticulitis can treat symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal discomfort, and blood in the stool. However, homeopathy is ineffective in treating severe diverticulitis when peritonitis, a potentially lethal illness, has developed. In these cases, immediate medical attention (call 911) is required.

Most Common Homeopathic Remedies for Diverticulitis

The patient should see a licensed homeopathic physician in person for customized remedy selection and care. The following treatments are beneficial for treating diverticular disease:

Colocynthis: For Diverticulitis-Related Abdominal Pain

The pulp of the fruit of the Citrullus Colocynthis plant is used to make the natural medicine Colocynthis. The plant belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family is generally referred to as a bitter apple. Colocynthis is used to treat diverticulitis-related stomach discomfort complaints. The lower abdomen is where the pain is located. The pain could be severe, cutting, cramping, colicky, or gripping. Abdominal pain can sometimes go to the thighs or small of the back. Moreover, the abdomen could be swollen, sensitive, and uncomfortable to the touch. Eating and drinking exacerbate the discomfort. Lying on the abdomen or bending over twice can provide relief. The pain may also subside if the flatus is passed. Frequent loose feces, nausea, and vomiting may accompany the aforementioned symptoms.

Magnesium Phos: For Diverticulitis when Heat Relieves Abdominal Pain

Magnesium phosphate is a homeopathic treatment for diverticulitis, which causes pain in the abdomen. It is recommended when applying pressure and warm treatments to relieve stomach pain. There is a lot of flatus, and the pain is cramping in character. Individuals with magnesium phosphate deficiency also have less stomach pain. Watery diarrhea could accompany the abdominal ache.

Nux Vomica: A Treatment for Diverticulitis Accompanied by Constipation

Nux vomica is a homeopathic remedy for diverticulitis-related constipation. Individuals who require Nux Vomica experience a persistent, futile urge to urinate. Every time they go to the bathroom, the urge lasts briefly before returning. The stool is always inadequate, sparse, and dry. Sometimes, there could also be streaks of blood. Before passing feces, abdominal pain may be experienced; this pain may subside after passing stool.

Bryonia: For Diverticulitis Accompanied by Constipation

The plant known as Bryonia alba, White Bryony, or wild hops makes Bryonia. The Cucurbitaceae natural order includes this plant. Bryonia is also beneficial when treating diverticulitis-related constipation. A large, sturdy, dry, and hard stool is essential for employing Bryonia. The stool can occasionally be so dark and dry that it looks burned. It takes a lot of effort to pass the stool easily. You might feel burned in the anus. There could also be a colic that pinches the abdomen. When Bryonia is indicated, motion seems to make the abdomen pain worse.

Arsenicum Album: For Vomiting and Nausea Associated with Diverticulitis

A potent homeopathic treatment for diverticulitis that causes noticeable nausea and vomiting is arsenic album. Vomiting occurs shortly after eating or drinking in circumstances where an arsenic album is needed. Water and/or ingesta, or a yellow-green liquid, are the byproducts of vomiting. Extreme nausea is present in conjunction with it. Anxiety, restlessness, and stomach pain may coexist with these symptoms. Watery, unpleasant diarrhea might occasionally arise. With the aforementioned symptoms come noticeable exhaustion and weakness.

Ipecacuanha: Treating Persistent Nausea in Diverticulitis Patients

The dried root of the plant Cephaelis ipecacuanha, which is a member of the Rubiaceae family, is used to make ipecac. Ipecac is a great treatment for diverticulitis-related, persistent nausea. Extreme, upsetting, and chronic nausea characterizes its state. White glairy mucus or watery fluid vomiting may occur, followed quickly by a return of nausea. Most abdominal colic involves cutting and pinching. The tongue is spotless.

Nitric Acid: When Blood Is Seen in the Stool Due to Diverticulitis

When blood is in the stool due to diverticulitis, nitric acid is a useful homeopathic treatment. The blood has a vivid red color. Thin, watery stools may alternate with hard, dry, uncomfortable, and irregular stools. When stools are being passed, the rectum may hurt like a spider. The lower abdomen is swollen and tender to the touch.

Aloe: For Treating Diverticulitis Accompanied by Diarrhea

The gum of Aloe Socotrina leaves, which belong to the Liliaceae family of plants, is used to make aloe. Aloe vera is an important medication for treating diverticulitis-related diarrhea. There may be bits of undigested food in the yellow, thin, and frequently occurring stools. There’s a noticeable urgency to pass stool. Usually, the urge to urinate happens shortly after eating. One feels a continual bearing down in the rectum. Stomach pain often occurs along with bloating, especially on the left side of the abdomen. Additionally, a lot of foul flatus is expelled, which eases the pain in the abdomen.

China: For Flatus and Abdominal Pain Associated with Diverticulitis

The dried bark of the plant Cinchona officinalis, which is a member of the Rubiaceae family, is used to make china. China is a possibility in cases of diverticulitis that also manifests with bloating, severe flatus, and abdominal pain. The flatus is rumbling and moving, and the abdomen feels constricted. In pain, bending over twice helps release tension. The frequent appearance of watery, unpleasant feces may accompany this abundance. Frequent loose stool causes a noticeable debility.

Tips for Care and Prevention

Adopting a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for individuals managing diverticulitis can help regulate bowel movements and prevent flare-ups. Staying hydrated is also crucial to maintaining regular bowel movements and reducing strain on the colon. Avoiding trigger foods like seeds, nuts, and popcorn can prevent irritation and inflammation of the diverticula. Gentle exercise, such as walking or yoga, can promote healthy digestion and reduce stress on the colon. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing can also help manage symptoms and prevent exacerbation of diverticulitis. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Conclusion: Taking a Holistic Approach to Managing Diverticulitis

Incorporating acupuncture and homeopathic remedies can complement or substitute traditional treatments for diverticulitis. Acupuncture has shown promising results in reducing pain and inflammation associated with diverticulitis, while homeopathic remedies can help alleviate symptoms and support overall gut health. It is essential to consult with a qualified practitioner before starting any alternative treatments to ensure safety and effectiveness. Embracing a holistic approach that combines dietary modifications, hydration, exercise, stress management, as well as acupuncture and homeopathic remedies can empower individuals to better manage and find relief from diverticulitis. Remember, a comprehensive approach tailored to individual needs is key to promoting long-term health and well-being.

Find Holistic Treatment for Diverticulitis in Philadelphia

If you live in the City of Brotherly Love and seek natural treatments for diverticulitis or other digestive issues, you are in the right place because Philadelphia Holistic Clinic is the home for all natural healing methods, including acupuncture, homeopathy, hypnosis, Reiki, medical herbology, and more. All the best naturopathic specialists gathered here at the clinic under the supervision of a medical doctor, Victor Tsan. His 45+ years of clinical experience guarantee the best and most professional approach to your treatment.

Contact the Philadelphia Holistic Clinic at (267) 403-3085 for your initial evaluation appointment and to meet Dr. Tsan. He will personally examine you; the evaluation will last 80–90 minutes or more if necessary. During your appointment, you will undergo all necessary testing and be offered the most customized and personalized natural treatment.

You can also use the scheduling widget online below.