Diverticulosis

When a small pouch or sac forms in the large intestine (colon) this pouch is called a diverticulum. Multiple sacs or pouches are called diverticula and are a common occurrence in many individuals affecting approximately ten percent of people in the United States over the age of forty and approximately fifty percent of all individuals who are over the age of sixty will have diverticula.

When an individual has developed diverticula within the colon, this is a condition that is called diverticulosis. An individual who has diverticulosis will typically not be aware that they have this condition until they undergo a routine colonoscopy or testing for another medical condition as diverticulosis generally does not cause any noticeable symptoms. 

Symptoms Associated with Diverticulosis 

While the majority of individuals who develop diverticulosis will not experience any symptoms, some individuals may have pain, discomfort, or cramping in the lower abdomen, constipation, and bloating. When an individual does experience symptoms with diverticulosis, this is called "painful diverticular disease" or "symptomatic diverticular disease.

In some cases of diverticulosis these pouches may develop an infection which is known as a diverticular disease that is called diverticulitis. An individual who has painful diverticular disease will typically experience symptoms that are the same as "irritable bowel syndrome" or IBS. These symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal discomfort, pain, or cramping, however, they will not experience a fever or any other signs of an infection. 

Treatment for Diverticulosis 

When an individual is diagnosed with having diverticulosis, the recommended form of treatment consists of making dietary changes. These include increasing the intake of fiber and fluids to avoid the constipation that is a common symptom of diverticulosis. A diet high in fiber includes foods such as fresh fruits, leafy green vegetables, and whole grains.

Fiber supplements are also a good way to increase the intake of fiber and include over-the-counter products such as "Fibercon", "Citrucel", and "Metamucil". In order to ensure that you are obtaining a sufficient amount of fluids the recommendation is to drink eight to ten eight ounce glasses of water on a daily basis. 

These dietary changes will decrease the likelihood of more diverticula or pouches developing as well as decrease the chances of developing diverticular disease. For painful diverticular disease, the recommended form of treatment is the same for individuals who suffer from IBS.

This includes avoiding certain foods and beverages that can causes gas, bloating, or pain, such as beans, broccoli, cabbage, alcohol, and caffeine. Research studies suggest that preventing diverticulosis may be possible by consuming a diet that is high in fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly.

While diverticulosis typically does not causes any symptoms and no form of treatment is required, if you are experiencing any symptoms that are persistent or concerning you it is important that you schedule an appointment with your physician for a medical evaluation and proper diagnosis.