Diverticulosis is a condition in which small pouches or sacs called diverticula form in the walls of the colon. When these diverticula become inflamed or infected, the condition is called diverticulitis. This article explores the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for both conditions.
Causes and Symptoms
Causes:
- Low Fibre Diet: Lack of fibre in the diet can lead to the formation of diverticula.
- Ageing: Weakness of the intestinal wall with age.
- Chronic Constipation: May increase pressure in the colon, contributing to the formation of diverticula.
Symptoms of Diverticulosis:
- Asymptomatic: Most people with diverticulosis have no symptoms.
- Mild Abdominal Pain: You may experience occasional abdominal discomfort.
Symptoms of Diverticulitis:
- Abdominal pain: Severe and constant pain, usually in the lower left quadrant of the abdomen.
- Fever: Elevation of body temperature.
- Nausea and vomiting: Associated with abdominal pain.
- Change in Bowel Habits: Diarrhoea or constipation.
- Abdominal tenderness: Pain when touching the affected area.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: Assessment of symptoms and examination of the abdomen.
- Computed Tomography (CT): To confirm inflammation or infection of the diverticula.
- Colonoscopy: To assess the presence of diverticula in the colon (usually not performed during an acute episode of diverticulitis).
Treatment of diverticulosis:
- High Fibre Diet: To prevent the formation of new diverticula.
- Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake.
- Regular Exercise: To promote intestinal health.
Treatment of diverticulitis:
- Antibiotics: To treat the infection.
- Intestinal Rest: Liquid or low-fibre diet to allow the colon to recover.
- Analgesics: To control pain.
- Surgery: In severe cases, removal of the affected part of the colon may be necessary.