Diverticulosis and diverticulitis: what you need to know

Diverticulosis is a clinical condition in which multiple diverticula develop along the gastrointestinal tract. These pouch-like protrusions usually form in weak areas of the wall of the small or large intestine, but in most cases appear In the sigmoid colon.

Health experts believe in diverticula happen It is caused by a diet low in fiber and high pressure in the colon.

Diverticulosis is 8th most common Outpatient diagnosis in the United States. It becomes more likely to occur with age, but occurs in:

• Approximately 1 in 10 people are over 40 years old
• Half of them are over 60 years old
• Two-thirds are over 80 years old

Diverticulitis occurs when one or more diverticulum sacs become inflamed.

Researchers are still investigating the cause of diverticular inflammation. but, specific factorsProblems with the immune system or tissues in the colon, changes in the microbiome, bacteria or stool caught in diverticula can all contribute.

The majority of patients with diverticulosis Although there are no symptoms, And the condition itself is not dangerous. You may experience intermittent constipation. 20% When complications occur, symptoms of pain and bleeding appear.

Symptoms associated with diverticulosis can include:

Symptoms of diverticulitis vary depending on the severity of the symptoms.of most common symptoms Diverticulitis includes:

people often complain of pain lower left side of the abdomen. The pain is continuous and sharp and may radiate to the legs, back, groin, and flanks. Some people may experience urinary symptoms such as an increased urge to urinate.

People with complications may have long-term symptoms such as:

Your doctor may be able to diagnose diverticulosis based on the presence or absence of symptoms. Imaging tests such as her x-rays with barium enema or colonoscopy can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Generally, colonoscopy is best test Determine the cause of bleeding in the stool.

of Selectable imaging tests In cases of acute diverticulitis, a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is required.this can be detected What part of the colon is affected and whether there are abscesses, strictures, or fistulas.

Abdominal ultrasound can also diagnose acute diverticulitis. However, this highly depends on the skill of the operator.

Endoscopy is not ideal for diagnosing acute diverticulitis for the following reasons: increasing risk Perforated.

A urine test can detect urinary tract infections (UTIs). This may indicate the presence of a fistula, where the urine is contaminated with faeces from the colon.

Your doctor may perform a colonoscopy 6-8 weeks After symptoms resolve, other diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, colitis, and cancer are ruled out.

Learn more about colorectal cancer.

Most bleeding associated with diverticulosis resolves on its own.experts suggest 75% Most bleeding episodes stop on their own and do not require treatment. However, your doctor may recommend increasing fiber and water in your diet to improve symptoms. reduce intestinal spasms.

Bulking laxatives can help relieve constipation.Plantain and bran supplements may also be helpful.

Further intervention may be required if bleeding continues or if there is a large diverticulum that is at risk of infection or rupture.Your doctor may recommend one of the following Treatment to stop bleeding:

• injection
• Coagulation (cautery, argon plasma coagulation device)
• Mechanical devices (loops, clips, bands)

It is important to treat diverticulitis quickly because it can lead to complications such as:

• abscess
• perforation of the colon
• peritonitis
• Fistula formation

Standard outpatient treatment for diverticulitis It contains:

Learn about the best foods for diverticulitis.

Managing diverticulitis and its associated symptoms is the best prevention method. By eating a high fiber diet, 20-35 grams (g) Eating fiber daily can help prevent it. It is also essential to drink at least eight glasses of water to soften the stool and make it easier to pass.

Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are related diseases that affect the large intestine. Both involve the presence of sacs called diverticula. Although diverticulosis is often asymptomatic, infection of these sacs can lead to diverticulitis and other complications.

A high-fiber diet and adequate fluid intake can help reduce the risk of diverticulitis and its related symptoms. Treatment of acute diverticulitis may include antibiotics and bowel rest.