K.N.O.W. Home Health - DIVERTICULOSIS

DIVERTICULOSIS

✅ What is Diverticulosis?

Diverticulosis means you have small pouches (called diverticula) that form in the wall of your colon (large intestine). These pouches are common, especially as people get older. Many people don’t even know they have them because they often don’t cause any symptoms.

🔍 What Causes Diverticulosis?

A low-fiber diet over many years
Getting older (usually over age 40)
Not drinking enough water
Constipation or straining during bowel movements
Lack of exercise

🤕 Symptoms (If Any)

Most people with diverticulosis have no symptoms.
But some may experience:

Mild stomach pain or cramps
Bloating
Gas
Constipation

If these symptoms become worse, or if the pouches become infected, it can turn into a condition called diverticulitis.

🥦 Diet and Lifestyle to Help

To help reduce symptoms and avoid problems:

Eat more fiber – fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
Drink plenty of water – at least 6–8 glasses per day.
Exercise regularly – walking or light movement helps your bowels.
Avoid straining when using the bathroom.
Don’t ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.

Ask your doctor before eating nuts, seeds, or popcorn. Some may still recommend avoiding them.

⚠️ Special Considerations

Diverticulosis can lead to diverticulitis if pouches become infected or swollen.
Follow your doctor's or nurse’s instructions on diet and activity.
Take any medicines as ordered.
Keep your bowel movements regular—constipation can lead to problems.

👩‍⚕️ When to Call Your Home Health Nurse or Doctor

Call if you:

Have new or worsening belly pain
Have constipation that lasts more than 2–3 days
Feel bloated or uncomfortable often
Notice blood in your stool
Have chills or a low-grade fever
Are unsure about what you should eat

🚨 Go to the Emergency Room if:

You have severe belly pain
You have a high fever (over 101°F)
You are vomiting and cannot keep food or drink down
You feel faint, dizzy, or weak
You have heavy bleeding from your rectum
Your belly becomes hard or swollen

✅ Patient Homework / Assessment

Circle "True" or "False" for each statement: Pease correct all False statements

True / False – Diverticulosis means you have small pouches in your colon.
True / False – Most people with diverticulosis have lots of pain all the time.
True / False – These pouches are called diverticula.
True / False – A high-fiber diet can help prevent problems from diverticulosis.
True / False – Drinking plenty of water is important for your colon health.
True / False – Diverticulosis is the same as diverticulitis.
True / False – If the pouches get infected, it can turn into diverticulitis.
True / False – Bloating and mild stomach cramps can be signs of diverticulosis.
True / False – You should avoid fiber to keep your colon healthy.
True / False – Walking every day can help your bowels move better.
True / False – You should ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
True / False – You may be told to avoid nuts, seeds, or popcorn.
True / False – Constipation can make diverticulosis worse.
True / False – Blood in your poop should be reported to your doctor or nurse.
True / False – It's okay to wait a week or two before telling someone about belly pain.
True / False – If you have severe belly pain or a high fever, go to the emergency room.
True / False – You should always ask before taking new medications.
True / False – Drinking soda is better than water for diverticulosis.
True / False – Getting older can increase your chance of having diverticulosis.
True / False – You should follow your nurse or doctor’s advice about your diet and activity.

ASSESSMENT of WELL-BEING INDIVIDUALIZED PATIENT HOMEWORK

Symptom Identification:

Have you experienced any abdominal discomfort, bloating, or changes in your bowel habits, even if mild?

Activity Impact/SAFETY:

Does your digestive discomfort affect your ability to eat, exercise, or perform daily activities safely?

Treatment Adherence:

Are you following your healthcare provider’s recommendations for diet, supplements, or medications to manage your condition?

Preventive Measures:

Are you eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly to reduce the risk of developing diverticulitis?