Diverticular disease is a surprisingly common condition that becomes more common with age. Yet despite its prevalence, many people have never heard of the disease or its two basic forms: diverticulosis and diverticulitis.
At Desert West Surgery, our team uses advanced techniques to diagnose diverticular disease and treat it to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Learn the basics of diverticulosis and diverticulitis so you can seek care at the first sign of symptoms.
Diverticulosis is a condition that happens when tiny sac-like projections (called diverticula) form in the wall of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, typically the small intestine or the large intestine (colon).
Due to years of wear and tear, these sacs form in focused areas of weakened tissue, usually in older people. While fewer than 20% of people under age 40 have diverticulosis, that number increases to about 60% by age 60. Diverticulosis is also more common among people who follow a low-fiber diet.
Many people with diverticulosis don’t have any symptoms. They only learn about their condition when it’s discovered during a colonoscopy or examinations, like CT cans or barium enemas, performed for other issues.
When diverticulosis causes no symptoms, management typically involves making dietary adjustments, like eating more fiber, to improve overall bowel function. Better bowel function helps relieve pressure on the tiny weakened areas, avoiding complications.
Diverticulitis is a condition that happens when the tiny diverticula becomes irritated, inflamed, and sometimes infected. It can be considered a more advanced or “progressed” form of diverticulosis, and about 25% of people with diverticulosis will go on to develop diverticulitis.
Inflammation and infection can occur when the diverticula becomes clogged with stool or mucus. Over time, bacteria grow inside the pouches, leading to inflammation, infection, and painful symptoms, including:
In extreme cases, one or more diverticula may form deep infections called abscesses or tiny holes (perforations), posing a very serious and even life-threatening problem.
Diverticulitis is frequently diagnosed through imaging tests. When inflammation subsides, a colonoscopy is sometimes recommended. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment begins.
Milder forms of diverticulitis may be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, including diet changes. In more severe cases or when perforations or abscesses occur, colon surgery might be necessary to correct the problem and remove the affected tissue.
Symptomatic diverticulosis and diverticulitis benefit from prompt medical care to prevent serious complications like disease progression, deep infections, or perforations. Following a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise can help maintain optimal bowel health. Still, it’s also essential to schedule a visit at the first sign of symptoms, like belly pain or changes in bowel habits.
If you’ve been diagnosed with diverticulosis or you think you might have diverticular disease, call Desert West Surgery and schedule a visit at the Las Vegas location nearest you to prevent more serious problems and keep your GI tract as healthy as possible.
