What is the treatment for diverticular disease?
High fibre diet, and possibly fibre supplements
A high fibre diet is usually advised. This may ease pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. It can also help to prevent the formation of further diverticula which may reduce the risk of the condition getting any worse. See the leaflet mentioned above for details of a high fibre diet.
Fibre supplements may be advised if a high fibre diet does not ease symptoms. Several types are available at pharmacies, health food shops, or on prescription. The most common (and cheapest) is bran. Some people find bran unpalatable and try other fibre supplements such as ispaghula. A pharmacist will advise. Although the effects of a high fibre diet to ease symptoms may be seen in a few days, it may take as long as four weeks. See the separate leaflet called 'Fibre and Fibre Supplements' more details on a high fibre diet and fibre supplements.
Note: some people find that bran based products cause symptoms to become worse for as long as they take them. If your symptoms do not improve after 3-4 weeks of taking bran, then stop or reduce it. You can continue with other fibre supplements.
Fluids
You should have lots to drink when you have a high fibre diet or fibre supplements. Aim to drink at least two litres (about 8-10 cups) per day.
Paracetamol
Paracetamol can ease pain if a high fibre diet or fibre supplements do not help so much to ease pain. Other types of painkiller are not usually used for diverticular disease.
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