What is a typical treatment for diverticulitis when symptoms are mild?

In cases of mild diverticulitis, a high fiber diet is often recommended as part of the treatment strategy. This dietary approach helps to reduce the risk of future flare-ups by improving bowel regularity and decreasing pressure within the colon. The purpose of increasing dietary fiber is to facilitate softer stools that can pass more easily through the intestines, potentially preventing the formation of diverticula and alleviating inflammation.

In managing mild diverticulitis, healthcare providers typically emphasize a gradual increase in fiber intake, along with adequate hydration, to promote digestive health. While antibiotics might be prescribed in more moderate cases, they are not usually the sole treatment option when symptoms are mild. Surgery is generally considered only for severe cases or recurrent episodes that do not respond to conservative management. A low fiber diet is often recommended during acute symptoms to minimize gastrointestinal stress, but transitioning to a high fiber diet is crucial for long-term management and prevention.