Overview of Diverticulosis The incidence of diverticulitis is increasing with the worsening of our diet habits in the recent times.
It has been estimated that about 30% of all adults may be suffering from diverticular disease.
Adults above the age of 40 years are considered to be at an increased risk as it was noted in a study that more than 50% of adults with diverticular disease were more than 40 years old.
It is argued that the incidence of diverticular disease was much lesser before 1920s wherein the consumption o processed foods was very less.
With the advent of technology and processed foods in the 20th century that are low in fiber, the incidence of diverticular disease is on the rise.
Interestingly the prevalence of diverticular disease is much lesser in parts of the world where there is a higher intake of fibrous foods.
Diverticulosis: What It Is? The muscles and the related tissues in the colon undergo numerous changes as age progresses.
The walls of the colon tend to become thicker with advancing age which may reflect the increase in the pressures required by the colon to eliminate the feces.
Diets low in fiber leads to formation of smaller lumps of stool that are hard and difficult to be pushed through the colon.
A consistent increase in the colon pressures can lead to formation of pouches within the cracks of the intestinal muscles.
These pouches are known as diverticula and the infection of these pouches due to accumulation of bacteria within them is referred to as diverticulosis.
Inflammation of the diverticula is called diverticulitis.
Symptoms and Signs of Diverticulosis Diverticulitis or diverticulosis is most commonly characterized by pain in the lower left side of the abdomen.
The pain tends to worsen if you try to move.
Further, it may be accompanied by various other features such as fever and chills, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation.
The symptoms of diverticulitis may last for varying periods of time and can range from a few hours to a few days with intermittent symptom-free periods.
Diagnosis of Diverticulosis The diagnosis of diverticulosis is based on a comprehensive review of the symptoms and signs noted history of the condition, and certain specialized tests.
The doctor may perform physical examination to check for the areas associated with pain.
Specialized tests that are advised include blood tests, and imaging studies such as x-ray, CT scanning and observation of the colon through a special device known as colonoscope.
Treatment of Diverticulosis The treatment plan is based upon the severity of the disorder and ranges from rest to surgical correction.
Changes in diet are advised initially if the presence of any complication has been ruled out.
You may be advised to follow a liquid diet until the symptoms subside.
Some of the home remedies include application of a heat bag set a low temperature and meditation.
Antibiotics are generally advised if the presence of an infection is suspected.
Other drugs such as anti-inflammatory or pain relieving medicines may be advised if the presence of inflammation is suspected.
Surgical correction of the defect in the colon may be advised if diverticulosis is severe.
Meet your healthcare provider immediately if the symptoms worsen or if you note other features such as increased blood in the stools, shoulder pain, passage of stools through the urethra (in case of women) or abdominal swelling.
Preventive Tips The following simple steps can prevent the occurrence of diverticulosis.
oDrinking plenty of fluids or water on a regular basis oAdequate amount of exercise every day and oConsumption of a diet rich in fiber