What is Diverticulosis?
Diverticulosis is a common condition, often found in older populations, that can develop into diverticulitis. Both conditions together are referred to as diverticular disease. As many as 65% of Americans aged 65 and older may have diverticulosis1, and it becomes increasingly more common as someone ages. What is this condition, what are its symptoms, and how is it treated?
What is diverticulosis?
Diverticulosis is a condition in which one or more sac-like formations push outward on the inner wall of the colon. These formations, called diverticula (“diverticulum” in the singular), most commonly appear in the weak areas of the intestine’s outer lining. They are commonly found in the sigmoid colon, or the “S-shaped” final curve of the large intestine near the rectum. When these diverticula cause inflammation or tearing, the condition becomes diverticulitis.
Complications of diverticulosis include intestinal obstructions, abscesses, fistulas, peritonitis, and hemorrhage. Risk factors include a low-fiber diet, obesity, cigarette smoking, and overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Diverticulosis risk can also be genetic2.
What are the symptoms of diverticulosis?
Approximately 80 percent of patients with diverticulosis never develop any symptoms3. However, symptoms may include chronic constipation or other bowel irregularities, nausea, and bloating, all of which can be managed through diet.
If diverticulosis develops into diverticulitis, this can have more painful symptoms. Symptoms of diverticulitis include pain in the lower left abdomen, fever, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and frequent urination urges.
How is diverticulosis diagnosed?
Diverticulosis is diagnosed with an examination and medical questionnaire that rules out genetic factors, side effects of medications, and other conditions that may cause this condition. A doctor will ask about symptoms and if certain foods are easier to digest. During the medical visit, a doctor may push pressure points in the lower left abdomen and listen to the gut with a stethoscope to look for abnormalities. Additional exams such as a rectal exam, CT scan, colonoscopy, or a barium enema may be required to conclude if the condition is diverticulosis.
How is diverticulosis surgically treated?
Oftentimes, a high-fiber supplement or diet will be suggested to reduce the chances of additional diverticula forming and becoming inflamed. However, if the condition is particularly problematic or begins to develop into diverticulitis, surgical intervention may be required.
Surgery for diverticulitis may be necessary following an abscess, fistulas, rectal bleeding, blockage, intestinal perforation, or hemorrhage. Surgery may involve removing parts of the colon. On rare, serious occasions, a colostomy may be required. Patients that need surgery may be candidates for laparoscopic surgery, which carries less risk than open surgery.
Can diverticulosis be avoided?
Although diverticulosis is common in people over the age of 65 years old in developed countries, it can be avoided. It’s important to eat a healthy, fiber-filled diet, drink water, and exercise regularly. These actions help to keep the digestive system as a whole in top shape.
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