Diverticulitis in Pasadena, CA
Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when small pouches, called diverticula, form in the wall of the colon and become inflamed or infected. While diverticula are common and often harmless, inflammation can cause significant pain and complications if left untreated. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits.
Because diverticulitis can vary from mild to severe, timely diagnosis and personalized treatment are essential to managing the condition and preventing recurrence. Dr. Kimberley Shine, a family medicine physician, offers an integrative and functional approach to address acute flare-ups and long-term gut health.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of diverticulitis is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute, including:
- Low-Fiber Diet: Diets lacking in fiber may increase pressure in the colon, leading to diverticula formation.
- Age: Risk increases with age, especially over 40.
- Obesity: Higher body weight is associated with greater risk.
- Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise may slow bowel function.
- Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to increased diverticulitis risk.
- Gut Microbiome Imbalances: Poor digestive health may contribute to inflammation and flare-ups.
By identifying these contributing factors, Shine Health and Wellness creates personalized prevention strategies.
Symptoms of Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may include:
- Persistent abdominal pain, often in the lower left side
- Fever and chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Bloating or abdominal tenderness
- Blood in the stool (in severe cases)
How Diverticulitis Is Diagnosed
At Shine Health and Wellness, diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation that may include:
- Medical History and Exam: Reviewing symptoms, lifestyle, and dietary habits.
- Blood Tests: Checking for signs of infection or inflammation.
- Imaging Studies: CT scans or ultrasounds to confirm diverticulitis and rule out complications.
- Functional Medicine Testing: Assessing gut microbiome balance, nutrient deficiencies, and systemic inflammation.
This detailed approach ensures patients receive the most accurate diagnosis and effective care plan.
Treatment Options for Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis treatment depends on the severity of the condition. At Shine Health and Wellness, care plans may include:
- Medication Management: Antibiotics and pain relief for acute infections.
- Nutritional Counseling: Transitioning from a low-fiber diet during flare-ups to a high-fiber, anti-inflammatory diet for prevention.
- Gut Health Support: Probiotics and functional medicine approaches to restore microbiome balance.
- Lifestyle Guidance: Stress reduction, exercise recommendations, and hydration strategies.
- Supplements: Vitamins, minerals, and digestive support to strengthen colon health.
- Collaborative Care: Referral for surgical intervention when complications such as abscesses or bowel blockages arise.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular check-ins to adapt treatment and prevent recurrence.
This integrative model ensures patients receive both immediate relief and long-term protection.
The Role of Gut Health in Diverticulitis
Gut health plays a significant role in both the development and recurrence of diverticulitis. An imbalanced microbiome and chronic inflammation can increase susceptibility to flare-ups.
At Shine Health and Wellness, treatment includes strategies to restore gut balance, such as probiotics, dietary adjustments, and functional medicine testing. By focusing on digestive health, patients can reduce the likelihood of future episodes and improve overall well-being.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, combines more than a decade of medical experience with a compassionate, patient-centered philosophy. She emphasizes the importance of strong doctor-patient relationships, taking time to listen and create care plans tailored to individual needs. Her expertise in integrative and functional medicine allows her to address both the acute symptoms and root causes of diverticulitis.
Protect Your Digestive Health
Diverticulitis can be painful and disruptive, but with the right care, it can be effectively managed and future flare-ups reduced. At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine and her team provide personalized treatment plans that target both symptoms and root causes. Call 626-317-0207 today to schedule a consultation.