A Gut Feeling - Experiences Of Patients Who Have Suffered With Gastrointestinal Issues

We believe it’s important to share experiences of patients who have suffered with gastrointestinal issues. Many charities feel the same way — and this piece contains some direct quotes featured by a charity doing great work in this area, Guts Charity. Below you can discover Phil and William‘s story that they shared with Guts Charity about their experience with Diverticular Disease, a condition that we treat at One Health.

Both Phil and William have been diagnosed with the same condition, Diverticular Disease. 

Diverticular disease and diverticulitis are digestive conditions that affect the large intestine and are caused by small bulges or pockets (called Diverticula) that develop in the lining of the intestine.

William was diagnosed in 2018 with Diverticular after visiting his doctor.

“I went to see my GP because I had a permanent stitch-like pain in my left side.

The endoscopy showed numerous diverticula but no sign of cancer which was a relief on that front.”

Luckily for William, he doesn’t find the disease affects his day-to-day life.

“I still have the stitch like-pain in my side but have learned to live with it because nothing has been suggested otherwise. 

I play golf twice a week and play snooker so lots of bending and twisting without further discomfort.”

Phil also had similar symptoms prior to his diagnosis.

“One day I started getting a really severe wave-like abdominal pain that would come and go. 

I went to the hospital and was given antibiotics, as my diverticular disease had become infected (diverticulitis).”

Phil found Guts Charity after researching conflicting research and information online.

“It was such a relief to find somewhere with evidence- based information that I could trust and follow. The guys at Guts UK really did put the power in me.”

Phil runs a sweetshop and has been fundraising for Guts Charity.

“I openly speak to people about my guts and the amount of people who have digestive diseases has really surprised me. I think it’s so important that we talk openly about these symptoms and diseases.”

Find out more about the great work of Guts Charity and how they can support you on and your gut health. https://gutscharity.org.uk

At One Health, we treat the most common health conditions of the upper and lower gastrointestinal system, such as hernias, diverticular disease or gallstones. Our specialist consultants can diagnose and treat your condition quickly, using the latest techniques. We offer treatments such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, gastroscopy and more. Click here to learn more.