Diverticula are bulging sacs in the digestive system, which can become inflamed and infected, causing diverticulitis. Risk factors include obesity, lack of fiber, and age over 40. Treatment includes antibiotics and a liquid diet, with surgery as a last resort. Prevention includes exercise and a high-fiber diet.
Diverticula are bulging sacs usually found in the large intestine. They can also be found in other areas of the digestive system, such as the stomach and small intestine. It’s not fully understood why some people develop this condition. It is believed that the segments of the colon may be weak. Pressure can develop in the colon, which can cause it to swell.
Not all people will have symptoms if they have diverticula. However, diverticula can become inflamed and infected. When this occurs, the condition is known as diverticulitis. If inflammation develops, symptoms may include fever, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. Some people may also experience rectal bleeding.
There are a few theories as to why diverticulitis develops in some people with the condition. An inflammation can be caused by an obstruction in the diverticulum. Doctors believe another possible cause may be fecal material, which gets trapped in the opening of the diverticula and can lead to an infection.
While the exact cause of diverticulitis isn’t known, there are known risk factors for developing the condition. People who are obese or who don’t eat enough fiber are at risk of developing diverticulitis. Being over 40 is also a risk factor. Other risk factors include being overweight and not getting enough exercise.
When diverticulitis develops, treatment is usually needed and can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. Many cases can be treated at home. Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat the infection. A doctor will often recommend a liquid diet while a patient is experiencing symptoms.
If your symptoms occur often or are severe, you may need additional treatment. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary to administer intravenous antibiotics. In patients who have repeated infections, surgery to remove part of the colon where the diverticula are located may be recommended.
Complications can occur from diverticulitis and include intestinal obstruction, abscesses, and fistulas. Some complications, such as peritonitis, can be life-threatening if left untreated. Peritonitis is inflammation of the lining of the stomach cavity.
There are a few things people with the condition can do to prevent inflammation and infection from developing. Exercising and maintaining a healthy weight reduces your chances of developing diverticulitis. Eating foods high in fiber, such as fruits and whole grains, helps waste pass through the colon faster. This reduces the pressure in the colon and can prevent diverticulitis from developing.
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