What is diverticular disease?
Diverticular disease affects the colon and is made up of 2 conditions: Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis.
Diverticulosis occurs when pouches called diverticula form in the colon, these pouches bulge out. Diverticulitis occur when these pouches become inflamed.
What causes diverticular disease?
A low-fiber diet can cause problems such as constipation. With constipation, more pressure is needed to pass your stool. Doctors believe that increased colon pressure can lead to the development of diverticula. Diverticulitis occurs when fecal matter lodges in the diverticula and causes infections.
What are the symptoms:
Diverticulosis: Many people do not have any symptoms, but some do experience cramping, bloating and constipation. Some people may have bleeding, inflammation and fistulas. Rectal bleeding is usually painless but it can be serious, You should call your doctor right away.
Diverticulitis: Many patients have pain in the lower part of the abdomen. You may have fever, feel sick to your stomach, vomit or have change in your bowel habits.
How is Diverticular disease treated
Treatment depends on how serious the problem is. Most people improve with a change in their diet, including increasing their daily fiber intake. Some patient with Diverticulitis may require antibiotics and to follow a liquid diet.