When should I call my healthcare provider?
Call your healthcare provider:
- If you have constant, unexplained pain in your abdomen and especially if you also have fever and change in your bowel habit (newly developed constipation or diarrhea).
- If your symptoms return or get worse.
- If you see bright red or maroon colors in your stool or see blood in the toilet.
If I can’t get enough fiber from my diet, can I take a fiber supplement?
Yes, you can take a fiber supplement. Available products include FiberCon®, Citrucel®, Metamucil® and generics of these branded products and other fiber products. Be sure to drink at least 8 ounces of liquids with your supplement.
Are probiotics helpful in preventing diverticulitis?
Some researchers believe not having the proper balance of “good bacteria” in your gut may play a role in the development of diverticulitis. However, right now, there’s not enough scientific evidence to prove that probiotics can help prevent diverticulitis. Probiotics may be helpful in preventing constipation however.