Diverticulosis And Diarrhea

Diverticulosis-treatment and prevention

Diverticulosis is the formation of many small pockets or diverticula in the wall of the intestine. Diverticula, which can range from pea size much larger, are formed by increased pressure on weakened spots of the intestinal walls by gas, waste or liquid. Diverticula can form while straining during bowel movements, such as constipation. They are more common in the lower intestine.

Diverticulosis is very common and occurs in 10% of people over 40 years and in 50% of people over 60 years. Most people have little or no symptoms of diverticulosis, but the result can be very serious.

Complications occur in about 20% of people with diverticulosis. One of these complications is rectal bleeding, called diverticular bleeding, and another is diverticular infection, called diverticulitis.

Diverticular Bleeding

diverticular bleeding occurs with chronic injury to small blood vessels that are adjacent to the diverticula.

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when there is inflammation and infection of one or more diverticula. This usually occurs when pockets to hang with waste, allowing bacteria to accumulate and cause an infection.

What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?

Usually diverticulosis does not cause bothersome symptoms. Some people may feel tenderness over the affected area or abdominal cramps.

What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis, infection and inflammation of diverticula, can occur suddenly and without warning.

Symptoms may include:

* Diarrhea alternating with constipation. * Cramps or tenderness in the abdomen. * Chills or fever.

How is diverticulosis diagnosed?

Because most people with diverticulosis have no symptoms, it is usually found through tests ordered for another reason.

If you experience symptoms of diverticulitis, it is important to consult your doctor.

Your doctor will ask about your medical history (such as your bowel habits, symptoms, diet and current medications) and perform a physical exam, including a rectal examination.

One or more diagnostic tests may be ordered to help diagnose your condition. Tests may include X-rays, CT, ultrasound, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and blood tests for signs of infection or the size of the hemorrhage.

In people with rapid, heavy rectal bleeding, the doctor may perform a procedure called angiography to locate the source of the bleeding.

How is diverticulitis treated?

Diverticulitis sometimes resolves without medical treatment, but often requires antibiotics. Sometimes the infection is so severe that it is necessary to be admitted to a hospital for intravenous antibiotics and other supportive care. Rarely, a surgeon may remove the affected part of the intestine.

During the active phase of infection, many experts recommend eating a diet low in fiber and drink plenty of water. One month after the infection resolves, you can continue to eat fiber.

Emergency treatment, including surgery may be needed when the antibiotics do not work, and in case of a large abscess, perforation, peritonitis or continued rectal bleeding.

What are the complications of diverticulitis?

Serious complications can occur as a result of diverticulitis. Most of them are the result of the development of a tear or perforation of the bowel wall. If this occurs, intestinal waste may escape from the intestine into the abdominal cavity surrounding the origin of the following problems:

* Peritonitis (a painful infection of the abdominal cavity) Abscess * ("walled" infections in the abdomen) * Obstruction (blockages of the intestine)

If an abscess is present, the doctor will.