Diverticulosis is the presence of small sacs of tissue in the colon, which can cause few or no symptoms. Diverticulitis is an infection of these sacs, which can cause fever, abdominal pain, and bloating. Treatment includes antibiotics and surgery in severe cases. A high-fiber diet is often recommended for diverticulosis.
Diverticulosis is a condition in which the colon suffers from diverticula, small, swollen sacs of tissue that push outwards from the colon wall. Diverticula tend to form as a person gets older and the pressure built up in the colon causes the tissues to swell. A person with diverticulosis may have few or no symptoms.
Diverticulosis by itself is simply the presence of pockets of swollen tissue in the colon. However, someone with the condition is said to have diverticular disease. Often confused with diverticulitis, diverticulosis can be present in the body without complications.
Diverticulitis is an infection of the sacs, which can rupture and typically brings about symptoms including fever, abdominal pain and bloating. In rare cases, there may be bleeding, requiring medical attention and occasionally surgery. Although extremely rare, if an infected diverticulum ruptures in the abdominal cavity, it can be life-threatening.
The finding may occur during a routine colonoscopy or the condition may be investigated if symptoms occur. Barium x-rays and abdominal ultrasounds can also detect the presence of diverticula. Changes in bowel habits, including constipation or diarrhea along with abdominal cramps and bloating, can signify diverticulosis. People who experience symptoms that persist or who pass bloody or tarry, black stools should call their doctor, as complications such as diverticulitis or another colon disease may be present. A correct diagnosis is necessary for successful treatment.
Diverticulitis is treated with antibiotics and in most cases the infection responds. If you have a severe infection with a high fever and pain, excessive bleeding, or failure to respond to antibiotics, surgery may be needed. In the more frequent case of diverticulosis, a patient can often forgo a specific treatment. While benefits are unproven, a high-fiber diet is often recommended to help regulate bowel function, and bloating can be treated with antispasmodic medications if needed.
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