Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis

Diverticula are small pouches that bulge outward through the colon, or large intestine. If you have these pouches, you have diverticulosis. This condition becomes more common as people age. About half of all people over age 60 have it. Doctors believe the main cause is a low-fiber diet.

Most people with diverticulosisis don't have symptoms. Sometimes it causes mild cramps, bloating or constipation. A high-fiber diet and mild pain reliever will often relieve symptoms.

If the pouches become inflamed or infected, you have diverticulitis. The most common symptom is abdominal pain, usually on the left side. If the diverticula are infected, you may also have fever, nausea, vomiting, chills, cramping and constipation. In serious cases, diverticulitis can lead to bleeding tears, or blockages. Treatment focuses on clearing up the infection with antibiotics, resting the colon and preventing future problems. A serious case may require a hospital stay.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

External Resources

Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis - Information and discussion concerning Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis.

Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis - Read a definition of this digestive disorder, survey the symptoms and characteristics, and explore the treatment options.

Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis of Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis - From the Medical College of Wisconsin. Discusses the causes,symptoms,diagnosis and treatment.

Three Rivers Endoscopy Center - Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis - Fact sheet for patients features a description of this condition affecting the colon. Includes photos and dietary tips.

Diverticulosis vs. Diverticulitis - There is still a good deal of confusion about diverticulosis, especially when it comes to the components of a good diet.

eMedicine Health - Consumer health resource center providing information on the causes, symptoms, and treatment of diverticulosis and diverticulitis.

Share your story: