Colonic Diverticulosis: Treatment options in Turkey

Colonic diverticulosis: What is it?

Colonic diverticulosis is an acquired anatomical abnormality of the colon that is particularly common in the elderly. It is characterized by the formation of diverticula, small pocket-like growths in the wall of the colon.

These diverticula develop when pressure increases inside the colon, pushing the intestinal mucosa through weak points in the intestinal muscles.

Symptoms of colic diverticulosis

Diverticulosis of the colon is often asymptomatic. However, some people may experience symptoms such as:

• Bloating.
• Abdominal pain, usually on the left side.
• Bowel transit problems (diarrhea, chronic constipation, or alternating between the two).
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement.
• Mucus in the stool.

In some cases, colonic diverticulosis can develop into diverticulitis, inflammation and infection of one or more diverticula. Diverticulitis can be serious and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include:

• Severe abdominal pain on the left side.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever.
• Increased heart rate.
• Tenderness in the abdominal area.

Risk factors for colonic diverticulosis

Several factors can increase your risk of developing diverticulosis, including:

• Advanced age: The risk increases with age, especially after age 50.
• Low-fiber diet: Lack of dietary fiber can increase pressure in the colon and promote diverticulum formation.
• Diets high in sweets.
• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Hereditary factors: People with a family history of diverticulosis have a higher risk of developing the disease.
• Prolonged use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Adopting a balanced diet rich in natural fiber and maintaining good daily hydration are simple yet essential measures to reduce the risk of diverticulosis.

Give priority to fresh fruits, green vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. A healthy lifestyle remains the best preventive approach for colon health.

Our partner nutritionists in Turkey can help you adapt your diet to preserve the health of your digestive system.

Treatment options for colonic diverticulosis in Turkey

Treatment of colonic diverticulosis mainly depends on the stage of the disease and the presence or absence of complications. In Turkey, patients benefit from comprehensive care ranging from medical prevention to specialized surgery when necessary.

Through Turquie Santé, each patient is referred to the gastroenterology center best suited to their profile, with personalized follow-up before, during, and after treatment.

Medical treatment

In most cases, diverticulosis does not require surgery. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing inflammatory episodes (diverticulitis).

The main therapeutic measures include:

• A high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to facilitate intestinal transit and reduce pressure in the colon.
• Adequate daily hydration, essential for maintaining soft stools.
• The use of probiotics to promote balance in the intestinal microbiota.
• Mild medications to regulate bowel movements when necessary.

In Turkey, specialists from Turquie Santé often combine personalized nutritional monitoring with a digestive prevention program to achieve long-term stabilization of intestinal health.

Treatment of diverticulitis and colon surgery

When diverticulosis progresses to diverticulitis (acute inflammation),more specific management is required.

In mild cases, antibiotic therapy and an adapted diet are usually sufficient to restore the condition.

However, if attacks become recurrent or complications arise (abscess, perforation, bleeding),surgical intervention may be recommended.

Digestive surgeons in Turkey favor minimally invasive techniques, such as partial colectomy or laparoscopic sigmoidectomy, which allow for:

• Faster recovery
• Less postoperative pain
• A minimal risk of recurrence

These procedures are performed in accredited gastroenterology hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring safety, precision, and comfort for each patient.

Each surgery is preceded by a comprehensive diagnostic assessment (CT scan, MRI, colonoscopy) to ensure the most appropriate therapeutic strategy.

Diverticulosis surgery with Turquie Santé

Turquie Santé offers you the opportunity to consult with qualified specialists to discuss the potential benefits and risks of surgery for colonic diverticulosis.

I want you to know that surgery is not a good solution for all patients. The decision to have surgery should be made in consultation with your doctor, taking into account your overall health.

If you have a serious medical condition, you should discuss your treatment options with your primary care physician.

Turquie Santé is committed to providing you with clear and accurate information about colonic diverticulosis surgery so that you can make an informed decision about your health.

Feel free to contact us to schedule a free teleconsultation with one of our specialists.