What you Need to Know About Diverticulitis

Posted: 12/10/2014 10:04 AM by Interim HealthCare
Home Health Care Could Be The Best Thing For Aging Loved One Suffering From This Condition

Diverticulitis develops when consumed and digested food material gets trapped in diverticula which are located along the wall of large intestine. In this case, it allows bacteria to grow and may tear the wall of intestine. When it happens, the lining of the abdominal wall may become infected. Uncoordinated movements of the colon can also develop diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis may cause nausea, fever, and changes in bowel habits. Mild cases can be treated with a proper diet and antibiotic medications. Some other signs include rectal bleeding, frequent urination, and pain in urinating, tender abdomen. When it becomes severe it must be treated in the hospital. If not treated immediately it may develop abscess or fistula. Lower abdominal pain is common after treating diverticulitis.

Older people are prone to developing this condition. Your loved one is more likely to develop this condition when they eat a low-fiber diet or when they have a family history of diverticulitis. Obesity and smoking increase the risk of developing this painful and serious disease.
Those who are prone to diverticulitis should avoid eating nuts, berries, seeds and popcorn because these small materials can easily be trapped in the diverticula, resulting in inflammation, bleeding and possibly infection.

Often, a doctor must be called when you can’t relieve the symptoms at home. Relaxation, mild painkillers and a heating pad may bring some relief. As always, keep a close eye on the health of your elderly loved one.

For medical needs at home, consider hiring home health services. Whether your loved one has just returned home from the hospital and is recovering, or has ongoing health issues that require medical attention, a home health provider can give her the assistance she needs in her own home. With a doctor’s prescription for home health care, the costs can be covered by Medicare, making this a very affordable option for families.

Home health care reduces hospital readmission rates by providing high quality medical care for seniors in their home. Studies show that seniors who are discharged from the hospital and go home without any follow-up home health care have a high risk of being readmitted to the hospital within 30 days.

Reducing unplanned hospitalizations saves time and money for all involved as well as spares your loved one the ordeal of being readmitted to the hospital again. Most seniors are happiest in the comfort of their own homes.

If you have an aging loved one and are considering home care services, contact Interim HealthCare today. G+