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| Other topics: General Surgery |
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Keywords
diverticulosis, constipation, diverticulae, diverticulitis, abdominal pain, peritonitis, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, barium enema, anastomosis, colostomy, bmbody
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Overview *
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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 diverticulosis 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 surgery.
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Multimedia
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This patient education program is for patients who may need surgery for diverticulosis. Included are the following sections: Anatomy, Symptoms & Causes, Alternative Treatments, Surgical Treatment, Risks & Complications, and After Surgery.
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This button allows you to read and print an illustrated handout. |
This button starts a multimedia program with interactive questions. |
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This button starts an interactive quiz.
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This button plays a self-running presentation.
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Last reviewed: 10/17/2007 |
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